formulate

[ fawr-myuh-leyt ]

verb (used with object)

, for·mu·lat·ed, for·mu·lat·ing.

1. to express in precise form; state definitely or systematically:

   He finds it extremely difficult to formulate his new theory.

   Synonyms: specify, define, compose, frame, articulate

2. to devise or develop, as a method, system, etc.
3. to reduce to or express in a formula.

formulate

/ ˈfɔːmjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to put into or express in systematic terms; express in or as if in a formula
2. to devise

Derived Forms

• ˈformuˌlator, noun

Other Words From

• for·mu·la·ble [fawr, -my, uh, -l, uh, -b, uh, l], adjective
• formu·lation noun
• formu·lator noun
• nonfor·mu·lation noun
• pre·formu·late verb (used with object) preformulated preformulating
• prefor·mu·lation noun
• un·formu·lated adjective
• well-formu·lated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of formulate¹

First recorded in 1855–60; formul(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Hunter Swisher, a 2016 Penn State alumnus, is the founder and chief executive officer of Phospholutions, a fertilizer formulated to increase phosphorus efficiency in the soil.

From Science Daily

Will that be a factor in Vladimir Putin’s calculations as he formulates Russia’s response?

From BBC

The Justice Democrats’ plan is being formulated amid significant Democratic finger-pointing.

From Salon

Several theories about the mugs and vases were formulated on myths, but few of them were ever tested to reveal their exact ingredients until the truth was extracted layer by layer.

From Science Daily

Gray said there had been no decisions yet as to how the final bill would be formulated as he sought support to pass the legislation.

From BBC

Related Words

• codify
• define
• develop
• devise
• draft
• draw up
• forge
• map
• prepare
• work out