preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈper-əd-nəs 

also

-ˈperd-nəs 

: the quality or state of being prepared

especially : a state of adequate preparation in case of war

Examples of preparedness in a Sentence

The military is in a state of preparedness.

Recent Examples on the Web

Long-term recovery efforts will focus on rebuilding infrastructure and evaluating flood preparedness measures for the historically flood-prone region. —Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025

Anaheim Fire & Rescue’s Emergency Management Division is holding an eight-hour emergency preparedness training course. —Andrea Manes, Oc Register, 3 July 2025

The Orchard Fire near Clarkdale, Arizona, prompted evacuation preparedness for nearby residents. —Austin Corona, AZCentral.com, 3 July 2025

Here’s another thing that jumps out from that survey: While C-suite executives are concerned about a lack of preparedness, concern among employees was even higher—57% versus 64%, respectively. —Sumeet Salwan, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

prepared + -ness

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for preparedness

• unpreparedness

Kids Definition

preparedness

noun

pre·​pared·​ness pri-ˈpar-əd-nəs  -ˈper- 

 also  -ˈpa(ə)rd-nəs,

 or  -ˈpe(ə)rd-

: the quality or state of being prepared

especially : a state of readiness for war