cau·tion   (kô'shən)    n.   Careful forethought to avoid danger or harm. Close attention or vigilance to minimize risk: The car proceeded over the rickety bridge with caution. Prudence or restraint in action or decision: advised caution in choosing a school. A warning or admonishment, especially to take heed: I received a caution from the doctor about fat in my diet. A cautious action; a precaution: The climbers took the necessary cautions in preparing for the ascent. Informal One that is striking or alarming. tr.v.   cau·tioned, cau·tion·ing, cau·tions To advise to take heed; warn or admonish. [Middle English caucioun, from Old French caution, from Latin cautiō, cautiōn-, from cautus, past participle of cavēre, to take care.]

Caution

Cau"tion\, n. [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  (n.)

caution

see throw caution to the winds.