caution Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the trait of being cautious; being attentive to possible danger
    carefulness; cautiousness.
    • a man of caution
  2. noun a warning against certain acts
    caveat.
    • a caveat against unfair practices
  3. noun judiciousness in avoiding harm or danger
    precaution; forethought; care.
    • he exercised caution in opening the door
    • he handled the vase with care
  4. noun the trait of being circumspect and prudent
    circumspection.
  5. verb warn strongly; put on guard
    monish; admonish.

WordNet


Cau"tion noun
Etymology
F. caution a security, L. cautio, fr. cavere (For scavere) to be on one's guard, to take care (orig.) to be on the watch, see; akin to E. show.
Definitions
  1. A careful attention to the probable effects of an act, in order that failure or harm may be avoided; prudence in regard to danger; provident care; wariness.
  2. Security; guaranty; bail. R.
    The Parliament would yet give his majesty sufficient caution that the war should be prosecuted. Clarendon.
  3. Precept or warning against evil of any kind; exhortation to wariness; advice; injunction.
    In way of caution I must tell you. Shak.
    Syn. -- Care; forethought; forecast; heed; prudence; watchfulness; vigilance; circumspection; anxiety; providence; counsel; advice; warning; admonition.
Cau"tion transitive verb
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Cautioned ; present participle & verbal noun Cautioning
Definitions
  1. To give notice of danger to; to warn; to exhort [one] to take heed.
    You cautioned me against their charms. Swift.

Webster 1913