formulate

verb

for·​mu·​late ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlāt 

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

ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlā-tər 

noun

Synonyms

• articulate
• clothe
• couch
• express
• phrase
• put
• say
• state
• word

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

This lightweight cream is formulated to reduce signs of aging on the face and neck. —Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 11 Feb. 2025

What’s the Difference Between Influenza A and Influenza B? Seasonal influenza vaccines are formulated each year to protect against the main groups of type A and type B flu viruses, based on surveillance data from the World Health Organization. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 7 Feb. 2025

Be sure to fill the container with nutrient-rich soil formulated for indoor plants. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Feb. 2025

Pure Green’s selections are formulated through recipes that deliver a punch of flavor along with ample nutrients to help get through the day or workout. —Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing formulate

• pre-formulate

Kids Definition

formulate

verb

for·​mu·​late ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlāt 

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

ˈfȯr-myə-ˌlāt-ər 

noun