planning

noun

plan·​ning ˈpla-niŋ How to pronounce planning (audio)
: the act or process of making or carrying out plans
specifically : the establishment of goals, policies, and procedures for a social or economic unit
city planning
business planning

Examples of planning in a Sentence

Careful planning made the party a success.
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.
After experiencing an unexpected cancellation, Sweatt emphasizes the importance of having backup options and staying flexible throughout the planning process. Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 28 June 2025 That gave Mincey the time to rest and focus on creative planning for the bar’s concept and design. Irene Adeline Milanez, Sacbee.com, 28 June 2025 Modern executives must similarly create robust succession planning, knowledge transfer systems, and institutional memory, not just to perform well during their tenure, but to set up the next generation for success. Esade Business & Law School, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 Wilson started his career in 2000 at Ahold Delhaize USA’s predecessor support brands, serving as director of business development, VP of strategy, and VP of finance and business planning. Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for planning

Word History

First Known Use

1730, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of planning was in 1730

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Planning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/planning. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!