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 Not to mention, this is formulated to relieve dry, itchy, and flaky scalps, too. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 Mar. 2024 It’s formulated with a potent blend of AHAs and BHAs for a more effective chemical exfoliation. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 14 Mar. 2024 This rich green nail polish is formulated for a smooth, creamy application. Nora Colomer, Fox News, 13 Mar. 2024 While mineral sunscreens traditionally cast an ashy tone, Dr. Zeichner points out that brands have begun formulating better physical sunscreens to counteract that. Sarah Y. Wu, Glamour, 8 Mar. 2024 Among the staff members backstage at the rally, none had spent more time formulating that day’s message than Mike Donilon, an unassuming man in a roomy gray suit. Evan Osnos, The New Yorker, 4 Mar. 2024 It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture and three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) that restore and maintain the skin barrier. Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2024 Try not to start formulating your response as the other is explaining their position. John Lowe, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2024 By splitting the mice into a trio of distinct species, researchers will now be able to reassess their populations and formulate a conservation plan. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 23 Feb. 2024

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 28 Mar. 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

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