preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
also
-ˈperd-nəs How to pronounce preparedness (audio)
: 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 company offers premium automotive tools at affordable prices, making driver safety and preparedness more accessible to all. Kyle J. Russell, Detroit Free Press, 20 Dec. 2024 What People Are Saying Authorities across these states are emphasizing the importance of preparedness. Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024 These measures ensure robust performance in predicting severe weather, balancing timely warnings with minimal false alarms and enhancing public safety and emergency preparedness. Mithun A. Sridharan, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 Texas ranks among least safe states in the US To determine how safe each state is, WalletHub compared each state across five dimensions: personal and residential safety, financial safety, road safety, workplace safety and emergency preparedness. Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 17 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near preparedness

Cite this Entry

“Preparedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preparedness. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

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

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