conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce conditioning (audio)
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
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.
Wolfe upgrades Carrier to outperform from peer perform Wolfe upgraded the air conditioning and heating company after a meeting with company management. Michael Bloom, CNBC, 24 Feb. 2025 Tate at the time claimed his son fell off the toilet days earlier and hit his head on the air conditioning unit, leaving him with visible injuries. Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 21 Feb. 2025 United are making changes to Carrington (Getty Images) There have been discussions about making ‘best-in-class’ appointments in every department at Carrington: recruitment, data analysis, medical, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, player care and so on. Adam Crafton, The Athletic, 20 Feb. 2025 Pierre Ngo was promoted to head strength and conditioning coach from an assistant role in that department. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conditioning

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of conditioning was in 1861

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

conditioning

noun
con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce conditioning (audio)
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
He also got serious about his physical conditioning with a regimen that includes Pilates, weights and cardio training.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
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
… aversive conditioning to tie undesirable actions to unpleasant stimuli and thereby break habits.The New York Times Magazine
see classical conditioning, operant conditioning

More from Merriam-Webster on conditioning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!