ENGLISH
REFERENCE

prep

v. · n.
US //ˈpɹɛp// UK //pɹˈɛp// prep
  1. 1 to prepare (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    to get something or someone ready for a specific task or event.

    to perform the necessary preliminary work for an activity or event. Informal in register; functions as a transitive verb.

    Example

    The chef spent three hours prepping the vegetables for the dinner service.

    Example

    The surgical team began to prep the patient for the procedure while the anaesthesiologist monitored the vital signs.
  2. 2 preparation work (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    the work you do to get ready for something.

    the process of preparation, particularly in a professional or technical context such as cooking or medicine.

    Example

    The exam was difficult, but all my prep finally paid off.

    Example

    Despite the extensive prep involved in the film shoot, the sudden change in weather forced the crew to postpone the outdoor scenes.
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 homework (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Education

    school work that you do outside of your normal classes.

    school work assigned to be completed outside of regular classroom hours. Primarily used in British independent schools.

    Example

    The students have an hour of prep every evening before dinner.

    Example

    In many traditional boarding schools, the evening prep session is strictly supervised to ensure students remain focused on their academic assignments.
  2. 4 prep school student (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English Informal Education

    a student who goes to an expensive private school.

    a student or graduate of a preparatory school; often implies a specific wealthy or traditional social background.

    Example

    He looked like a typical prep in his ironed shirt and sweater.

    Example

    The local teenagers often clashed with the preps from the elite academy on the hill.
    • preppy

© 2026 English Reference