preparedness

[pri-pair-id-nis, -paird-nis]

noun

1. the state of being prepared; prepare; readiness.

2. possession of adequate armed forces, industrial resources and potential, etc., especially as a deterrent to enemy attack.

preparedness

/ prɪˈpɛərɪdnɪs /

noun

1. the state of being prepared or ready, esp militarily ready for war

Other Word Forms

• unpreparedness noun
• preparedly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of preparedness¹

First recorded in 1580–90; prepared + -ness

Example Sentences

Yet the big banks and other institutions continue to show strong financial resilience and preparedness, it said.

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"We must be at the highest levels of vigilance and preparedness, and continue our tremendous momentum," he added.

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In Antigua and Barbuda, hurricane preparedness is a year-round endeavour, explains Sherrod James, director of the country's office of disaster services.

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The Welsh government acknowledged there was "inadequate planning" to close schools, and the Scottish government has said there was also "limited preparedness".

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Others expressed frustration and noted that military preparedness could be compromised by the meeting.

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Related Words

• alertness www.thesaurus.com
• mobility 
• preparation 
• willingness