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