prepare
UK[prɪˈpeə(r)]US[prɪˈper]
v
To make something ready for use or consideration.
v
To make yourself ready for something that you are going to do.
Morpheme Breakdown
pre
pare
pre
before
pare
make ready
Etymology
The word 'prepare' entered English in the late 15th century from Middle French preparer, which itself descended from Latin praeparare, a compound of prae- ("before") and parare ("to make ready, to procure"). The core logic is straightforward: to make ready beforehand for a future event or purpose. The Latin parare is a versatile verb, also giving us related words like "apparatus" (equipment made ready) and "repair" (to make ready again). This etymological journey from the literal Latin sense of arranging things in advance to the modern abstract meanings of mental or physical readiness demonstrates a clear and consistent semantic thread.
Analysis
Structure: pre (before) + pare (make ready)
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before, in front of". A prefix indicating priority in time, place, or order.
- pare: From Latin parare, meaning "to make ready, to provide, to arrange". A verb-forming root.
Examples
The chef needs to prepare the ingredients before starting to cook.
You should prepare for your job interview by researching the company.
The city is preparing for the possibility of a major storm.