readiness

noun

read·​i·​ness ˈre-dē-nəs How to pronounce readiness (audio)
: the quality or state of being ready: such as
a
: a state of preparation
As Apollo approached readiness, a new system for validating flight hardware came into use.William Hines
… conditions that prevented all regiments being brought to battle readiness simultaneously …Graham A. Cosmas
Pym presented himself at the entrance to the school drive in readiness for Mr. Cudlove's arrival.John Le Carré
b
: prompt willingness
Kostunica has already expressed his readiness to talk with independence-minded leaders in Montenegro …Joshua Hammer et al.
Civil War reportage owed its successes also to the readiness of the military to accept photography as a new visual tool …Naomi Rosenblum
c
: ease, facility
The introduction was followed up on his side by a happy readiness of conversationJane Austen

Examples of readiness in a Sentence

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.
But one announcement won’t ensure equity, readiness or trust. C.m. Rubin, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 Subsea cables play a vital role in Europe's connectivity, competitiveness, defence readiness, and economic stability. Jordan King john Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 However, sources cautioned that the manifest could be moved around due to the readiness of subsequent New Glenn vehicles and their payloads. ArsTechnica, 30 June 2025 China’s latest actions show their readiness and ability to weaponize American and global dependence. Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for readiness

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of readiness was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Readiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/readiness. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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