definition of
preparation

[1] #1 preparation n. [readying] the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose; "preparations for the ceremony had begun". wn

[2] #2 preparation n. [formulation] a substance prepared according to a formula; "the physician prescribed a commercial preparation of the medicine". wn

[3] #3 preparation n. [planning, provision] the cognitive process of thinking about what you will do in the event of something happening; "his planning for retirement was hindered by several uncertainties". wn

[4] #4 preparation n. [readiness, preparedness] the state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action (especially military action); "putting them in readiness"; "their preparation was more than adequate". wn

[5] #5 preparation n. (music) a note that produces a dissonant chord is first heard in a consonant chord; "the resolution of one dissonance is often the preparation for another dissonance". wn