formulary
UK[ˈfɔːmjʊləri]US[ˈfɔːrmjəleri]
n
a book or list of standard formulas, especially one used in a particular field such as medicine or pharmacy.
n
a collection of set forms, especially for use in religious ceremonies.
adj
relating to or of the nature of a formula.
Morpheme Breakdown
formula
ary
formula
ary
relating to
Etymology
the word 'formulary' originates from the latin 'formula', a diminutive of 'forma', meaning 'form, shape, pattern'. this root, 'forma', is of uncertain origin, though it may be related to the greek 'morphe' (form). in latin, 'formula' evolved to denote a prescribed method or rule. the suffix '-ary', derived from latin '-arius', was added to form a noun indicating a collection or a book pertaining to such rules. thus, a formulary is literally 'a collection of formulas', a meaning which has been maintained in its specialized use for pharmacopeias and ritual texts.
Analysis
Structure: formula + ary
formula (latin, meaning 'small form' or 'rule'); ary (latin suffix via french, forming nouns meaning 'a thing connected with' or adjectives meaning 'relating to').
Examples
the hospital's formulary lists all the approved medications for use by its physicians.
the priest consulted the ancient formulary for the correct wording of the blessing.
formulary restrictions are common in managed healthcare plans to control costs.