preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
also
-ˈperd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
Synonyms of preparednessnext
: 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 blizzard inspired the use of underground subway lines and utility lines as well as better winter storm preparedness, city planning and new weather models and translation tools. — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 4 July 2026 My fellow emergency preparedness experts at Wirecutter and I have some strategies to prepare for sweltering temps. — Torrey Hart, New York Times, 4 July 2026 One sure focus is the rampant grade inflation that exaggerates student achievement and has made graduating high school close to meaningless as an indicator of college preparedness. — U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 July 2026 Albusaidi said services could include water safety measures, pollution prevention, navigational assistance and preparedness for incidents such as fires. — Jon Gambrell, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 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

Rhymes for preparedness

See All Rhymes for preparedness

Browse Nearby Words

prepared bid
preparedness
prepared opium
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preparedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preparedness. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for preparedness

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