adj., adv., n., & v.
--adj. (readier, readiest) (usu. predic.)
1. with preparations complete (dinner is ready).
2 in a fit state (are you ready to go?).
3 willing, inclined, or resolved (he is always ready to complain; I am ready for anything).
4 within reach; easily secured (a ready source of income).
5 fit for immediate use (was ready to hand).
6 immediate, unqualified (found ready acceptance).
7 prompt, quick, facile (is always ready with excuses; has a ready wit).
8 (foll. by to + infin.) about to do something (a bud just ready to burst).
9 provided beforehand.
--adv.
1. beforehand.
2 so as not to require doing when the time comes for use (the cases are ready packed).
--n. (pl. -ies) sl.
1. (prec. by the) ready money.
2 (in pl.) bank notes.
--v.tr. (-ies, -ied) make ready; prepare.
Phrases and idioms:
at the ready ready for action. make ready prepare. ready-made (or -to-wear) (esp. of clothes) made in a standard size, not to measure. ready-mix (or -mixed) (of concrete, paint, food, etc.) having some or all of the constituents already mixed together. ready money
1. actual coin or notes.
2 payment on the spot. ready reckoner a book or table listing standard numerical calculations as used esp. in commerce. ready, steady (or get set), go the usual formula for starting a race.
Derivatives:
readiness n.
Etymology: ME r{aelig}di(g), re(a)di, f. OE r{aelig}de f. Gmc