preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌpre-pə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of making something ready for use or service or of getting ready for some occasion, test, or duty

2

: a state of being prepared

3

: a preparatory act or measure

4

: something that is prepared

specifically : a medicinal substance made ready for use

Examples of preparation in a Sentence

The festival involves a lot of preparation.

To complete this recipe, plan on about 30 minutes of preparation and 40 minutes of baking.

Recent Examples on the Web

More competence and preparation are needed from the Trump administration, and quickly. —Chicago Tribune, Twin Cities, 2 Feb. 2025

In earning recognition as a College of Distinction, PNW was also awarded several accolades reflecting its academic programs and student resources that provide students active and hands-on learning experiences, a welcoming and inclusive environment and career preparation, the release said. —Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 2 Feb. 2025

With the Super Bowl scheduled for February 9, just a week after the Grammys, Kelce will likely be focusing on preparations for the big game. —Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 2 Feb. 2025

From the sites and sounds of the Big Easy, to what Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Andy Reid share about the team’s preparation, our journalists will cover it all. —Neil Nakahodo, Kansas City Star, 2 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English preparacioun, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French preparacion, borrowed from Latin praeparātiōn-, praeparātiō, from praeparāre "to prepare" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing preparation

• in preparation
• in preparation for

Kids Definition

preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌprep-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of making ready in advance

2

: a state of being prepared : readiness

3

: an act or measure that prepares

busy with preparations for the picnic

4

: something prepared

a medicinal preparation

Medical Definition

preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌprep-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of preparing

2

: something that is prepared

specifically : a medicinal substance made ready for use

a preparation for colds