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.
And state officials would also need to come up with a wildfire preparedness strategy every five years. — Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Certainly, there is responsibility that lies with our utility provider, NIPSCO, and there should be serious conversations about infrastructure, restoration times, communication and preparedness. — Freida Graves, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 On Friday, Hurtado provided new details on how the attack unfolded, amid questions about the capabilities, preparedness and intelligence-gathering of security forces in Haiti. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 28 Aug. 2026 Purchase and install emergency generators, integrate electrical systems, and conduct testing and preparedness activities so participating rural hospitals can maintain critical services during outages and disasters. — Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preparedness

Word History

Etymology

prepared entry 1 + -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 1 Sep. 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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