conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ 

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

Synonyms of conditioning

• activity
• exertion
• exercise

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

By dissolving debris and excess sebum first, this step enables conditioning and sealing products to actually reach the core, rather than sitting on top. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 25 Nov. 2025

Softening, conditioning, and tinted with just enough color to give lips a natural flush, Merit’s oils come in 12 glossy shades. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2025

More than 100 men refused to return to their cells, decrying the extreme heat conditions — as the prison has no air conditioning — and limited access to ice and showers. —Jonah Kaplan, CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025

The conditioning treatment in the kit helps prevent the color from looking dull. —Taryn Brooke, Glamour, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing conditioning

• classical conditioning
• operant conditioning

Rhymes for conditioning

• auditioning
• commissioning
• partitioning
• petitioning
• positioning
• transitioning
• decommissioning
• preconditioning
• reconditioning
• repositioning
• requisitioning

Medical Definition

conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ 

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