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.
Succession Planning Failures: Frequent reliance on interim CEOs highlights inadequate succession planning, raising concerns about the board's preparedness and oversight. Solange Charas, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 All of this underscores how vulnerable our food system remains and why investments in biosecurity and disease preparedness are more important than ever. Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 May 2025 Listen to this article The Poway Neighborhood Emergency Corps and Poway Fire Safe Council have received a $7,000 SAFE grant from The San Diego Regional Fire Foundation to support wildfire education and preparedness programs in the community. Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2025 Their marketing and communications position requires them to maintain relationships with teachers, other parents, and community members, while their risk management role involves childproofing, emergency preparedness, and ensuring family safety protocols are followed. Allbusiness, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025 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 5 Jun. 2025.

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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