Entry Word: prepare

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to make ready in advance <I think I prepared myself well for this test> <we prepared the classroom for the important visitors by getting rid of some unsightly clutter>

Synonyms fit, fix, lay, ready

Related Words brace, fortify, steel; batten, gather, gear (up), mount, train; boot (up), prime; arrange, set, spread; arm, equip, furnish, outfit, provide, supply; incline, predispose; draft, draw (up), frame; warm (up)

2 to make competent (as by training, skill, or ability) for a particular office or function <basic training is intended to prepare raw recruits for active duty in the military> — see qualify 2
3 to put (something) into proper and usually carefully worked out written form <asked his assistant to prepare a statement for the press> — see compose 1