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 In addition to including mineral sunscreen, it’s also formulated with Irish moss extract, which may provide some skin-enhancing benefits, including hydration and help with issues like acne, seborrhea, and rosacea. Jenny McCoy, Glamour, 25 Sep. 2024 Plus, it’s formulated with SPF40 to protect the skin from harsh UV rays, blue light, and pollution. Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2024 Viña Bas began formulating for another company, then joined forces with her brother and Valerio Soto Ferri to cofound IVB. Jennifer Weil, WWD, 18 Sep. 2024 It’s formulated with natural waxes to amplify lashes and quick-drying acacia gum to hold the curl, according to the brand. Alyssa Grabinski, Peoplemag, 17 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for formulate 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'formulate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of formulate was in 1855

Dictionary Entries Near formulate

Cite this Entry

“Formulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formulate. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.

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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