planning

noun

plan·​ning ˈpla-niŋ How to pronounce planning (audio)
Synonyms of planningnext
: the act or process of making or carrying out plans
specifically : the establishment of goals, policies, and procedures for a social or economic unit
city planning
business planning

Examples of planning in a Sentence

Careful planning made the party a success.
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.
These areas of the brain are engaged in reasoning, planning, and self-control. — Amanda Gardner, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026 Program planning needs to take into account the fun factor without losing efficacy. — Matt Parrott, Arkansas Online, 5 July 2026 The rescue, which involved intricate planning, was largely accomplished without the use of heavy machinery. — Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026 But the Swift-Kelce engagement—and the subsequent planning for the Swift-Kelce wedding—immediately took on a larger significance. — Tyler Foggatt, New Yorker, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for planning

Word History

First Known Use

1730, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of planning was in 1730

Phrases Containing planning

Rhymes for planning

See All Rhymes for planning

Browse Nearby Words

planner
planning
planning board
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Planning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/planning. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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