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

Whole Foods Whole Foods offers a large selection of turkeys, ranging in size, price, and preparedness. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Local wildfire-preparedness groups warned that the BEAD condition could prevent California from enforcing the throttling law and requirements for battery backups on cell towers. — Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 3 Nov. 2026

Supporters say the measure could allow the department to hire at least 1,000 additional firefighters and paramedics while purchasing fire engines, ambulances and other equipment, upgrading stations and improving wildfire preparedness. — Teresa Liu, Daily News, 3 Nov. 2026

More than 350 workers at the National Disaster Management Agency will oversee preparedness, emergency response and reconstruction efforts. — Mari Yamaguchi, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

Word History

Etymology

prepared entry 1 + -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