Prepared means ready for something before it happens. When you're prepared for a math test, you've studied the material, practiced problems, and reviewed your notes. When a family is prepared for a camping trip, they've packed tents, food, maps, and everything else they'll need.

Being prepared means thinking ahead. A prepared student brings extra pencils to school in case one breaks. A prepared soccer team practices different plays so they're ready for whatever the opposing team does. Emergency workers stay prepared by training regularly and keeping their equipment ready, even when there's no emergency.

People often say be prepared, which is the Scout motto, reminding us to think ahead and get ready before problems arise. Someone who is well-prepared has thought carefully about what might happen and taken steps to handle it. The opposite is being unprepared or caught off guard, scrambling to deal with something you didn't see coming.