preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌpre-pə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of making something ready for use or service or of getting ready for some occasion, test, or duty

The festival involves a lot of preparation.

Plans for the next edition are already in preparation.

She ran daily in preparation for the race.

2

: a state of being prepared : readiness

3

: a preparatory act or measure

busy with last-minute preparations for the wedding

4

: something that is prepared

specifically : a medicinal substance made ready for use

Examples of preparation in a Sentence

The festival involves a lot of preparation.

To complete this recipe, plan on about 30 minutes of preparation and 40 minutes of baking.

Recent Examples on the Web

Part of an Enduring Tradition Cabot has a long history of developing, manufacturing, and distributing premium-quality exterior wood care products, including stains, finishes, and surface-preparation products. —Kylie Petty, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Mar. 2026

Mansfield Multipurpose Stadium Mansfield Stadium will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including team-specific areas with immediate pitch access, providing a professional environment tailored to elite soccer preparation. —Abraham Nudelstejer, Dallas Morning News, 3 Mar. 2026

Proper preparation, like leveling surfaces and dry-laying tiles, ensures a polished and professional installation. —Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 3 Mar. 2026

Even when that preparation wasn’t easy. —Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English preparacioun, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French preparacion, borrowed from Latin praeparātiōn-, praeparātiō, from praeparāre "to prepare" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for preparation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌprep-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of making ready in advance

2

: a state of being prepared : readiness

3

: an act or measure that prepares

busy with preparations for the picnic

4

: something prepared

a medicinal preparation

Medical Definition

preparation

noun

prep·​a·​ra·​tion ˌprep-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the action or process of preparing

2

: something that is prepared

specifically : a medicinal substance made ready for use

a preparation for colds