readiness Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action (especially military action)
    preparation; preparedness.
    • putting them in readiness
    • their preparation was more than adequate
  2. noun prompt willingness
    zeal; eagerness; forwardness.
    • readiness to continue discussions
    • they showed no eagerness to spread the gospel
    • they disliked his zeal in demonstrating his superiority
    • he tried to explain his forwardness in battle
  3. noun (psychology) being temporarily ready to respond in a particular way
    set.
    • the subjects' set led them to solve problems the familiar way and to overlook the simpler solution
    • his instructions deliberately gave them the wrong set
  4. noun a natural effortlessness
    facility.
    • they conversed with great facility
    • a happy readiness of conversation"--Jane Austen

WordNet

Read"i*ness noun
Definitions
  1. The state or quality of being ready; preparation; promptness; aptitude; willingness.
    They received the word with all readiness of mind. Acts xvii. 11.
    Syn. -- Facility; quickness; expedition; promptitude; promptness; aptitude; aptness; knack; skill; expertness; dexterity; ease; cheerfulness. See Facility.

Webster 1913