conditioning

1 of 2

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce conditioning (audio)
Synonyms of conditioningnext
1
: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest
also : the resulting state of physical fitness
2
: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response

conditioning

2 of 2

present participle of condition entry 2

Synonyms of conditioning

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Noun

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Examples of conditioning in a Sentence

Noun the team's excellent physical conditioning With the proper conditioning, the horse will learn to trust and obey its handler.
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Noun
An extended car warranty, also known as a vehicle service contract, can cover work on a variety of parts after your manufacturer's warranty expires, including the engine, transmission, drivetrain, electrical system and air conditioning. — Brian Sloan, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2026 The program got a month’s jump on preparing for this season, with more winter conditioning, quicker postseason surgeries and a better offseason program. — Pete Sampson, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 This includes explaining the rising cost of doing business to his customers, avoiding refueling in California where possible and using alternative fuels to power air conditioning in trucks overnight. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 La Palma employs low-energy lighting and air conditioning and is committed to paper reduction using QR codes in the room instead. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conditioning

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of conditioning was in 1861

Phrases Containing conditioning

Rhymes for conditioning

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Browse Nearby Words

conditioner
conditioning
condition powder
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Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

conditioning

noun
con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce conditioning (audio)
1
: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest
Good shoes and proper conditioning are the best bets for avoiding shin splints.—Current Health
He also got serious about his physical conditioning with a regimen that includes Pilates, weights and cardio training.—Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated
also : the resulting state of physical fitness
Triathletes maintained their aerobic conditioning while developing new skills and strengthening neglected muscles. —Marlene Adrian, Shape
2
: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response
According to the theory, learning or conditioning is the process by which behavior is systematically and lastingly changed.—Harvard Mental Health Letter
… aversive conditioning to tie undesirable actions to unpleasant stimuli and thereby break habits.—The New York Times Magazine
see classical conditioning, operant conditioning

More from Merriam-Webster on conditioning

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about conditioning

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