conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce conditioning (audio)
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

Examples of conditioning in a Sentence

the team's excellent physical conditioning With the proper conditioning, the horse will learn to trust and obey its handler.
Recent Examples on the Web While 200,000 is the national average for the amount of power used, Arizonans use up more energy for things like air conditioning during the summer months. Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 26 Apr. 2024 This is typically an excellent time to duck into a museum, as most of the larger ones remain open (and cool, thanks to air conditioning). Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2024 For one, Randle says the air conditioning works better than inside the muggy main building. Bill Lukitsch, Kansas City Star, 25 Apr. 2024 He’s changed the color scheme, revamped the patio, altered a few recipes and invested in air conditioning. Jennings Cool, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2024 It's formulated with seven restorative oils that deliver shine, shea butter for deep skin conditioning, and glycerin for hydration that lasts until your next shower. Nikhita Mahtani, Allure, 22 Apr. 2024 The fatalities were also driven by power shortages in countries like Nigeria and Sierra Leone, leaving people without fans and air conditioning units. Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR, 18 Apr. 2024 The last thing a Texan needs is for their air conditioning unit to give out. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Apr. 2024 But it had already been tamed and polished for suburbanites, with cruise control and air conditioning, by 1994, when O.J. Simpson cowered in the back of one, a handgun to his temple, as patrol cars followed it for about two hours in the California twilight. Ben Finley, Quartz, 13 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'conditioning.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of conditioning was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near conditioning

Cite this Entry

“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 1 May. 2024.

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

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