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.
All hospitals must now submit a violence preparedness plan. Jennifer Mayerle, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2026 The film shifts the focus from traditional narratives of policy and victimhood to the everyday experiences of individuals adapting to a life of constant threat, raising critical questions about whether these safety rituals signify true preparedness or a surrender to violence. Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026 By mathematical measures, that figure may overestimate some people's preparedness. Ryan Ermey, CNBC, 7 Apr. 2026 With time, any initial uneasiness and unfamiliarity on the part of our students gives way to a clearer understanding of preparedness and the confidence to act as their own first line of defense. Gayle Pearlstein, The Washington Examiner, 3 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Preparedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preparedness. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

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

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