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.
Game recognizes game, and Kelce has expressed his admiration for the effort and conditioning required for Swift’s concert performances. Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2025 Instead of pumping in conventional air conditioning, it was surrounded by proprietary glass panes filled with cooled water. Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 30 Sep. 2025 Many in the state are already weathering crowded emergency rooms, rising air conditioning bills and vanishing opportunities to safely work or play outdoors. Joan Meiners, AZCentral.com, 29 Sep. 2025 With temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees across the United States, some regions saw the highest-ever summer peak in electric power demand as Americans cranked up their air conditioning. Preston Fore, Fortune, 27 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 3 Oct. 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

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