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 Athletes will be helped with injury prevention, injury recovery, nutrition, and strength and conditioning. Jorge Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2023 Factors like cabin pressure, air conditioning, and alcohol a naturally dehydrating beverage) coupled with rising elevation can make the effects of alcohol more pronounced. Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 14 Sep. 2023 The problem of not having air conditioning recently became all too clear. Chris Hacker, CBS News, 14 Sep. 2023 Folks who use a good amount of hair products—gels, sprays, and serum oils—might need to add an extra shampooing and conditioning day a week. Popular Science, 13 Sep. 2023 The original window sticker shows a long options list that includes air conditioning, an AM-FM stereo, six-way power seats, and the aforementioned electric sunroof. Brendan McAleer, Car and Driver, 10 Sep. 2023 Read full article Related: Lacking air conditioning, school districts across state grapple with extreme heat Boston Public Schools students in grades 1-12 returned to school, amid a heat emergency marked by thick humidity and temperatures that soared into the 90s. Naomi Martin, BostonGlobe.com, 7 Sep. 2023 District spokeswoman Monique Braxton said many schools need upgraded electrical systems to support air conditioning. Sophia Tareen, Anchorage Daily News, 6 Sep. 2023 Neither had working air conditioning, according to the Tarrant County medical examiner’s office. Noor Adatia, Dallas News, 2 Sep. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'conditioning.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of conditioning was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near conditioning

Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 23 Sep. 2023.

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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