Definition of provisional

The word "provisional" stems from the Latin word "provisio," meaning "foresight" or "provision." It entered English in the 14th century, originally meaning "to provide for" or "to make provision." Over time, "provisional" evolved to describe something temporary or conditional, based on the idea of making a temporary provision until a more permanent solution is found. Think of it as something put in place "for the time being," awaiting further developments.