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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yoga, Zumba, aqua conditioning, meditation, group fitness classes, and personal training sessions are also available. Patricia Doherty, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 2025 Life-Threatening Blood Clots After earning second-team All-SEC honors as a true freshman at Tennessee in 2017, Smith passed out during conditioning drills the following year due to blood clots on both sides of his lungs. Jeff Fedotin, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 Apply it in the shower for extra conditioning slip, on damp strands to prep for styling, or as a finishing touch after a blowout to tame stubborn frizz. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 1 Sep. 2025 The air conditioning system and the plumbing were repaired. Sacbee.com, 30 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conditioning

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of conditioning was in 1861

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Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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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