n.1 in senses of MAKE v.
2 (in pl.) a earnings; profit. b (foll. by of) essential qualities or ingredients (has the makings of a general; we have the makings of a meal). c US & Austral. colloq. paper and tobacco for rolling a cigarette.
Phrases and idioms:
be the making of ensure the success or favourable development of. in the making in the course of being made or formed.
Etymology: OE macung (as MAKE)