Pronunciation: [at ɹˈɛdi] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "at ready" might seem confusing at first glance, but it follows common English phonetic patterns. The vowel sound in "at" is /æ/, as in "cat" or "hat." The word "ready" features the diphthong /ɛər/, as in "air" or "bare." When pronounced together, "at ready" sounds like "aht-reh-dee." This phrase is often used in military or emergency situations to indicate that individuals should be prepared or alert.
The phrase "at ready" refers to a state of preparedness or readiness for immediate action or use. It typically describes a situation where something or someone is poised, positioned, or held in a manner that allows quick and easy access or deployment.
In a military context, "at ready" often pertains to soldiers or weaponry. It indicates that soldiers are standing by, fully alert and equipped, ready to engage in combat or carry out their assigned tasks at a moment's notice. Similarly, it can describe weapons or equipment that are being stored, displayed, or held in a condition that allows for immediate use.
Beyond the military domain, "at ready" can also be used more broadly to convey a state of preparedness in various situations. For instance, it may refer to professionals or individuals who are prepared and available to assist or provide guidance promptly. It can also describe objects or tools that are conveniently positioned for easy access or immediate use, such as having a first-aid kit "at ready" in case of emergencies.
Overall, the term "at ready" denotes being in a state of readiness, implying prompt action or availability whenever required. It signifies preparedness, efficiency, and the capability to respond quickly to any given situation.
The phrase "at ready" is an idiomatic expression derived from the combination of the preposition "at" and the adjective "ready". Here is the etymology of both words:
1. At:
The word "at" dates back to Old English, where it was spelled "æt" and had a similar meaning to its modern usage. "At" can be traced back to the Germanic language family, specifically the Proto-Germanic word "*at" which means "near to" or "close to". It shares its roots with other Germanic languages like German "an", Dutch "aan", and Swedish "åt".
2. Ready:
The word "ready" also comes from Old English, where it was spelled "rǣde" with various forms and spellings.
