Main Entry: pre·pare

Pronunciation: \pri-ˈper\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): pre·pared; pre·par·ing

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French preparer, from Latin praeparare, from prae- pre- + parare to procure, prepare — more at pare

Date: 15th century

transitive verb 1 a : to make ready beforehand for some purpose, use, or activity <prepare food for dinner> b : to put in a proper state of mind <is prepared to listen>
2 : to work out the details of : plan in advance <preparing a campaign strategy>
3 a : to put together : compound <prepare a prescription> b : to put into written form <prepare a report>intransitive verb : to get ready <preparing for a career>

— pre·par·er noun