conditioned

American  

[kuhn-dish-uhnd] / kənˈdɪʃ ənd /

adjective

1. existing under or subject to conditions.

2. characterized by a predictable or consistent pattern of behavior or thought as a result of having been subjected to certain circumstances or conditions.

3. Psychology. proceeding from or dependent on a conditioning of the individual; learned; acquired.

   conditioned behavior patterns.

4. made suitable for a given purpose.

   Synonyms:

   adjusted

5. accustomed; inured.

   Synonyms:

   used to

6. air-conditioned.

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conditioned British  

/ kənˈdɪʃənd /

adjective

1. psychol of or denoting a response that has been learned Compare unconditioned

2. (foll by to) accustomed; inured; prepared by training

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Other Word Forms

• nonconditioned adjective
• self-conditioned adjective
• semiconditioned adjective
• well-conditioned adjective

Etymology

Origin of conditioned

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; condition, -ed ²

Explanation

If you're conditioned to expect something, it means you've learned over time or been taught to anticipate it. Many people become conditioned to eat something sweet after dinner. Most adults, through the habit of brushing their teeth every morning and night for their whole lives, become conditioned to brush regularly. In other words, they've been taught or trained to do it. Another way to be conditioned is to be in great physical shape: "I've never felt so conditioned as when I took that tap dancing class!" The adjective conditioned comes from the Old French condicion, "stipulation, state, or behavior."

Example Sentences

“You’re conditioned to think that the market only goes one direction, and it has for the last few years. So this pullback is kind of unnerving for folks who’ve never experienced it before.”

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

We have all been conditioned for objects to work intuitively and instantly.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Assemblyman Avelino Valencia has introduced state legislation that could require any sale or new lease of the stadium property be conditioned upon the team reverting to the Anaheim Angels name.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Many Americans are wary not because they doubt U.S. military capability, but because recent history has conditioned them to ask basic questions: What is the objective?

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

Roger's arm was conditioned by a civilization that knew nothing of him and was in ruins.

From "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding