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Noun: formula (formulas,formulae)  for-myu-lu [N. Amer], for-myû-lu [Brit]
  1. Directions for making something
    "The family's secret formula for apple pie was passed down through generations";
    - recipe
     
  2. (mathematics) a group of symbols that make a mathematical statement
    "The quadratic formula is used to solve second-degree equations";
    - expression
     
  3. A conventionalized statement expressing some fundamental principle
    "The golden rule is a moral formula that many live by"
     
  4. (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems
    "he gave us a general formula for attacking polynomials";
    - rule
     
  5. A representation of a substance using symbols for its constituent elements
    "H2O is the chemical formula for water";
    - chemical formula
     
  6. Something regarded as a normative example
    "his formula for impressing visitors";
    - convention, normal, pattern, rule
     
  7. A liquid food for infants
    "The new mother prepared a bottle of formula for her baby"

Derived forms: formulae, formulas

Type of: direction, instruction, mathematical statement, milk, practice, procedure, process, statement

Encyclopedia: Formula, Vol 2 Tour