caution

1 of 2

noun

cau·​tion ˈkȯ-shən How to pronounce caution (audio)
1
: warning, admonishment
Her comments were intended as a caution to us to protect our property.
2
: precaution
a surgeon taking the caution of sterilizing his instruments
3
: prudent forethought to minimize risk
Use caution when operating a chain saw.
4
: one that astonishes or commands attention
some shoes you see … these days are a cautionEsquire
cautionary adjective

caution

2 of 2

verb

cautioned; cautioning ˈkȯ-sh(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce caution (audio)

transitive verb

: to advise caution to : warn
She cautioned him not to act rashly.

Examples of caution in a Sentence

Noun You should use caution when operating the electric saw. He injected a note of caution in his talk. Her financial adviser urged caution before investing in the project. The roads are slippery: drive with extreme caution. Her comments were intended as a caution to us to protect our property. A note of caution: be sure that the electricity is off before you install the ceiling fan. She was given a caution by the magistrate. Verb Officials are cautioning that the war may continue for years. “Don't decide too quickly,” she cautioned. He was cautioned for speeding.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 11 Oct. 2025 If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2025
Verb
This transformation, McVey cautioned, takes time to unfold. Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025 These tiny plastic pieces emerge as bottles are made, stored, transported and broken down, and shed particles when they’re manipulated and exposed to sunlight or temperature changes, experts cautioned. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for caution

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Latin caution-, cautio precaution, from cavēre to be on one's guard — more at hear

First Known Use

Noun

1566, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1683, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of caution was in 1566

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Caution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caution. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

caution

1 of 2 noun
cau·​tion ˈkȯ-shən How to pronounce caution (audio)
1
2
: carefulness in regard to danger
3
: someone or something that astonishes or catches one's attention

caution

2 of 2 verb
cautioned; cautioning ˈkȯ-sh(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce caution (audio)
: to advise caution to : warn

More from Merriam-Webster on caution

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