1
: made at an earlier time for later use : made ready in advance
The president read a prepared statement.
The store sells a selection of prepared foods.
2
: ready for something : in a suitable condition for some purpose or activity
I got so nervous. I guess I just wasn't prepared.
She was well-prepared and scored high on the test.
—often + forBe prepared [=ready] for a long wait.
The campers were not prepared for the rain.
3
not used before a noun
: willing to do something
How much are you prepared to pay?
I wasn't prepared to spend that much money.
I'm prepared to listen.
Cite this Entry
“Prepared.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/prepared. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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