'prescription' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praescriptio,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'scribere' meant 'to write.'

'praescriptio' transformed into the Old French word 'prescripcion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'prescription' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a written order or rule,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a doctor's written order for medicine.'