Category:Caution

Cau"tion, n. Etym: [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.]

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. Caution money, money deposited by way of security or guaranty, as by a student at an English university.

Syn. -- Care; forethought; forecast; heed; prudence; watchfulness; vigilance; circumspection; anxiety; providence; counsel; advice; warning; admonition.

caution Cau"tion v. t. [imp & p. p. Cautioned; p. pr. & vb. n. Cautioning.]

Defn: To give notice of danger to; to warn; to exhort [one] to take heed. You cautioned me against their charms. Swift.