preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs 

also

-ˈperd-nəs 

: 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

This includes the time of day, the number of children being left alone and their preparedness to stay by themselves. —Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 17 Dec. 2025

Newsom’s office said PHNIX will focus on public health preparedness by developing advanced technology and funding future frameworks. —Joseph Choi, The Hill, 15 Dec. 2025

That seems to suggest this Spurs team will be a dangerous force come playoff time, but LeBron James wasn't ready to speak on his team's level of preparedness for the postseason yet. —Matthew Couden, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025

The agency urged residents in 182 municipalities in the area to monitor their emergency preparedness in the coming week. —CBS News, 8 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

prepared + -ness

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for preparedness

• unpreparedness

Kids Definition

preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈpar-əd-nəs  -ˈper- 

also -ˈpa(ə)rd-nəs

or -ˈpe(ə)rd-

: the quality or state of being prepared

especially : a state of readiness for war