at the ready

phrase

Synonyms of at the readynext
: ready for immediate use
kept guns at the ready

Examples of at the ready in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The business had around 40 custom agents at the ready, but none of them were being deployed. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2026 Yes, there are only five visible drinks at the ready, and a Bills fan appears to be satisfied with munching on a sprig of herbs, but thanks to Sunday Ticket, everyone in the room will be dialed in to their favorite team. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 30 Sep. 2026 The first image from the episode (see it above) shows Butters in what appears to be his backyard with the X-Pest exterminator guy, who has strapped on his tank of poison and has his sprayer wand at the ready. — Tom Tapp, Deadline, 29 Sep. 2026 Guy lines stand at the ready to stake it out and increase stability in windy conditions. — New Atlas, 29 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at the ready

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at the ready was in 1837

Rhymes for at the ready

See All Rhymes for at the ready

Browse Nearby Words

at the pump
at the ready
at the risk of
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Cite this Entry

“At the ready.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20the%20ready. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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