PsychologyAugust 16, 2026

prescriptive

pri-SKRIP-tiv

Definition

Stating how something should be done or providing specific rules, directives, or recommendations for future behavior.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'praescriptivus,' meaning 'written before' or 'giving directions,' eventually entering English through Middle French to describe the act of laying down a rule.

In the news

The researcher uses the word to explain that their study currently describes observed phenomena rather than offering authoritative instructions or specific solutions for employees to follow.

Doomscrolling political news during your downtime predicts reduced engagement at work

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