preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
also
-ˈperd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
: the quality or state of being prepared
especially : a state of adequate preparation in case of war

Examples of preparedness in a Sentence

The military is in a state of preparedness.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fitness empire, which has over 200 facilities worldwide, has long been a frontrunner in innovating at the intersection of fitness, data, and overall longevity preparedness. Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2025 Rescuers say the hikers’ lack of preparedness serves as an important reminder of the dangers and unpredictability that can arise in the backcountry. Owen Clarke, Outside, 27 Oct. 2025 Given that most of the population lives near the coast, Jamaica’s size and shape play a critical role in disaster preparedness and response planning. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 The event was a precursor to the Great California ShakeOut Drill, a campuswide earthquake preparedness drill that took place the next day. Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for preparedness

Word History

Etymology

prepared + -ness

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preparedness was in 1590

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preparedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preparedness. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

preparedness

noun
pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈpar-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio) -ˈper- How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
 also  -ˈpa(ə)rd-nəs,
 or  -ˈpe(ə)rd-
: the quality or state of being prepared
especially : a state of readiness for war

More from Merriam-Webster on preparedness

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