caution

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   judiciousness in avoiding harm or danger

   I exercised caution in opening the door.

2. 2
   noun

   Prudence when faced with, or when expecting to face, danger; care taken in order to avoid risk or harm.

   take caution

3. 3
   noun

   A careful attention to the probable effects of an act, in order that failure or harm may be avoided.

   The guideline expressed caution against excessive radiographic imaging.

4. 4
   noun

   Security; guaranty; bail.

   The Parliament would yet give his majesty sufficient caution that the war should be vigorously prosecuted.

5. 5
   noun

   One who draws attention or causes astonishment by their behaviour.

   Oh, that boy, he's a caution! He does make me laugh.

6. 6
   verb

   To warn; to alert, advise that caution is warranted.

   In its May 1965 issue, Life magazine condemned skateboards as a “menace to limb and even to life,” and cautioned readers about riders who “take over the paths made for peaceful strollers.”

7. 7
   noun

   the trait of being cautious

8. 8
   noun

   the trait of being circumspect and prudent

Etymology

Recorded since 1297 as Middle English caucioun (“bail, guarantee, pledge”), from Old French caution (“security, surety”), itself from Latin cautiō, from cautus, past participle of caveō, cavēre (“be on one's guard”).