conditioning
noun
con·di·tion·ing
kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ 
1
: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest
also
: the resulting state of physical fitness
2
: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response
Examples of conditioning in a Sentence
the team's excellent physical conditioning
With the proper conditioning, the horse will learn to trust and obey its handler.
Recent Examples on the Web
The weather service said people should drink plenty of water, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing and use air conditioning.
—
Jeanine Santucci,
USA Today,
4 July 2026
The museum building has both air conditioning and air purification systems in place to protect the flag and more than 270,000 other historical items in its care.
—
Rebekah Riess,
CNN Money,
4 July 2026
Officials warned New Yorkers to stay hydrated, bring a fan and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, per New York City Emergency Management.
—
Julian Roberts-Grmela,
New York Daily News,
4 July 2026
Unable to afford repairs to the van’s air conditioning, Gordon decided to sell it hoping to shed not only repair costs, but the rising expenses that come with keeping the vehicle.
—
Maveah Griffith,
Charlotte Observer,
3 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for conditioning
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Jeanine Santucci,
USA Today,
4 July 2026
The museum building has both air conditioning and air purification systems in place to protect the flag and more than 270,000 other historical items in its care.
—
Rebekah Riess,
CNN Money,
4 July 2026
Officials warned New Yorkers to stay hydrated, bring a fan and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, per New York City Emergency Management.
—
Julian Roberts-Grmela,
New York Daily News,
4 July 2026
Unable to afford repairs to the van’s air conditioning, Gordon decided to sell it hoping to shed not only repair costs, but the rising expenses that come with keeping the vehicle.
—
Maveah Griffith,
Charlotte Observer,
3 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for conditioning
Cite this Entry
“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
conditioning
noun
con·di·tion·ing
kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ
1
: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest
Good shoes and proper conditioning are the best bets for avoiding shin splints.—Current Health
Current HealthHe also got serious about his physical conditioning with a regimen that includes Pilates, weights and cardio training.—Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated
Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated
also
: the resulting state of physical fitness
Triathletes maintained their aerobic conditioning while developing new skills and strengthening neglected muscles. —Marlene Adrian, Shape
Marlene Adrian, Shape 2
: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response
According to the theory, learning or conditioning is the process by which behavior is systematically and lastingly changed.—Harvard Mental Health Letter
Harvard Mental Health Letter… aversive conditioning to tie undesirable actions to unpleasant stimuli and thereby break habits.—The New York Times Magazine
see classical conditioning, operant conditioning
The New York Times MagazineLove words? Need even more definitions?
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