conditioning
noun
con·di·tion·ing
kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ 
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
Heat risk: Post-storm deaths can be driven by the combination of hot weather and lack of air conditioning, especially for the elderly.
—
Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 31 May 2025
This offseason, the 49ers promoted Dustin Perry to vice president of player health and performance, after previously leading their strength and conditioning program since 2019.
—Cam Inman, Mercury News, 31 May 2025
Demand for air conditioning will stretch electric utilities thin.
—Justin Worland, Time, 30 May 2025
Plus, chia seed boasts antioxidant and conditioning properties.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for conditioning
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 31 May 2025
This offseason, the 49ers promoted Dustin Perry to vice president of player health and performance, after previously leading their strength and conditioning program since 2019.
—Cam Inman, Mercury News, 31 May 2025
Demand for air conditioning will stretch electric utilities thin.
—Justin Worland, Time, 30 May 2025
Plus, chia seed boasts antioxidant and conditioning properties.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for conditioning
Cite this Entry
“Conditioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditioning. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
conditioning
noun
con·di·tion·ing
kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ
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
Current HealthHe also got serious about his physical conditioning with a regimen that includes Pilates, weights and cardio training.—Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated
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
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
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
The New York Times MagazineLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share