1. 1. The act of one that makes.
   2. The process of coming into being: trouble in the making.
2. The means of gaining success or realizing potential: That job will be the making of you.
3. 1. Something made.
   2. The quantity made at one time.
4. 1. The abilities or qualities needed for development. Often used in the plural: She has the makings of a fine teacher.
   2. The material or ingredients needed for making or doing something: all the makings for an apple pie.
5. makings Informal. The paper and tobacco for rolling a cigarette.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.