1. To make ready in advance for some use, activity, or purpose: Nancy and her friend Susan prepared themselves for the upcoming hiking tour in two days.

Before going shopping, Bruce prepared a shopping list of all the things they needed for the week.
2. To make someone receptive or able to deal with some information: The policewoman asked Jill to sit down to prepare her for the bad news regarding her husband.
3. To get a meal ready for cooking or eating: In the late afternoon Lynn started to prepare dinner for her family.
4. To put into an oral or written form: Mr. Simmons prepared his speech to the administrative team of the company.
5. To make oneself ready for something: Ivy prepared herself for the spontaneous ride in the wagon to the next farm.