underprepared

adjective

un·​der·​pre·​pared ˌən-dər-prə-ˈperd How to pronounce underprepared (audio)
Synonyms of underpreparednext
: inadequately prepared

Examples of underprepared 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.
Having underprepared for an audience with Pope John Paul II, a panicked Minnelli offered to sing. Matt Weinstock, New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2026 During most rescues, SAR teams hike into the backcountry to help tired, cold, and underprepared people who planned to be back home by dinnertime. Jayme Moye, Outside, 5 Mar. 2026 For Season 38, Devens was underprepared in a way that accidentally worked. Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 25 Feb. 2026 The focus of a recent faculty report seems to be more on measuring just how underprepared students are rather than examining what the campus can do to serve them. Tammi Marshall, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underprepared

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underprepared was in 1964

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Cite this Entry

“Underprepared.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underprepared. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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