What is the meaning of preparation?

noun

• The activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose.
  • usage: "preparations for the ceremony had begun"
  • synonyms: readying
• A substance prepared according to a formula.
  • usage: "the physician prescribed a commercial preparation of the medicine"
  • synonyms: formulation
• The cognitive process of thinking about what you will do in the event of something happening.
  • usage: "his planning for retirement was hindered by several uncertainties"
  • synonyms: planning, provision
• The state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action (especially military action. )
  • usage: "putting them in readiness"; "their preparation was more than adequate"
  • synonyms: readiness, preparedness
• Music) a note that produces a dissonant chord is first heard in a consonant chord. (
  • usage: "the resolution of one dissonance is often the preparation for another dissonance"
• Activity leading to skilled behavior.
  • synonyms: training, grooming
• Preparatory school work done outside school (especially at home.
  • synonyms: homework, prep
• The act of preparing something (as food) by the application of heat.
  • usage: "cooking can be a great art"; "people are needed who have experience in cookery"; "he left the preparation of meals to his wife"
  • synonyms: cooking, cookery