caution

What it means

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

   take caution

   5 more examples

   have caution

   exercise great caution

   utmost caution is required when travelling in this dangerous neighbourhood

   act with caution

   proceed without due caution

2. countableuncountableA 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.

3. countableuncountableSecurity; guaranty; bail.

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

   1702–1704, Edward [Hyde, 1st] Earl of Clarendon, (please specify |book=I to XVI), in The History of the Rebellion and Civil Wars in England, Begun in the Year 1641. […], Oxford, Oxfordshire: Printed at the [Sheldonian] Theater

In a sentence

take caution

Where it comes from

1. Latincautiō
2. Old Frenchcaution“security, surety”
3. Middle Englishcaucioun“bail, guarantee, pledge”
4. Englishcaution

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”).