Entry Word: care

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 strict attentiveness to what one is doing <thatʼs an extremely valuable violin, so handle it with care>

Synonyms carefulness, conscientiousness, heed, heedfulness, pains, scrupulousness

Related Words exactness, meticulousness, particularity, punctiliousness; dutifulness, responsibility; bother, effort, trouble; alertness, vigilance, watchfulness

Antonyms carelessness, heedlessness

2 a close attentiveness to avoiding danger <take care while crossing the street> — see caution 1
3 an uneasy state of mind usually over the possibility of an anticipated misfortune or trouble <on vacation, without a care in the world> — see anxiety 1
4 responsibility for the safety and well-being of someone or something <while youʼre under my care, youʼll do as youʼre told> — see custody
5 the duty or function of watching or guarding for the sake of proper direction or control <you'll have care of the project from its beginning to its completion> — see supervision 1