conditioning

1 of 2

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

conditioning

2 of 2

present participle of condition entry 2

Synonyms of conditioning

Noun

• activity
• exertion
• exercise

Examples of conditioning in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

Stickers pasted throughout the suite help guests understand air conditioning, lighting settings, and more. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Nov. 2026

And while financial experts advise keeping at least a $5,000 slush fund on hand for emergencies, nearly half have no plan to cover the cost of something major like putting up a new roof or replacing the air conditioning. — Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 12 Nov. 2026

Options include air conditioning, solar charging, the Thule awning with or without tent walls, an upgrade to a 200-Ah lithium battery, and an induction cooktop in place of gas. — New Atlas, 11 Nov. 2026

Many male Followers work as contractors, electricians and plumbers; Marshall works as a consultant for a heating and air conditioning company. — Noelle Crombie, ProPublica, 11 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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