formulate

verb

for·​mu·​late ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlāt How to pronounce formulate (audio)
formulated; formulating

transitive verb

1
a
: to reduce to or express in a formula
formulate the area of a rectangle
b
: to put into a systematized statement or expression
formulate long-term goals
c
: devise
formulate a policy
formulate a plan
2
a
: to develop a formula for the preparation of (something, such as a soap or plastic)
a plastic specially formulated to resist high temperatures
b
: to prepare according to a formula
formulate the vaccine against malaria
formulator noun

Examples of formulate in a Sentence

a plastic specially formulated to resist high temperatures the doctor was trying to formulate a good way to tell her that she would need surgery
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The basis of science is the scientific method which seeks to formulate questions to arrive at deeper answers to important questions. Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025 However, the questions and inquiries being formulated by the current administration have answers that have been well documented through a multitude of studies. Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025 The larger portion of the mask is formulated with NAD+, a coenzyme that supports collagen production and soothes antioxidative stress, and the lower chin piece puts polylactic acid to work in each little microfiber of the mask to lift, firm, and improve texture and tone evenness. Annie Blackman, Allure, 10 Apr. 2025 They’re actually formulated with moisturizing ingredients like (vitamin E and hyaluronic acid) to nourish the skin, with noncomedogenic options to keep acne-prone skin happy. Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for formulate

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of formulate was in 1855

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Cite this Entry

“Formulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formulate. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

formulate

verb
for·​mu·​late ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlāt How to pronounce formulate (audio)
formulated; formulating
1
: to express in a formula
2
: to put in systematic form : state definitely and clearly
formulate a plan
formulation
ˌfȯr-myə-ˈlā-shən
noun
formulator noun

More from Merriam-Webster on formulate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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