I. ˈkȯ-shən noun
Etymology: Latin caution-, cautio precaution, from cavēre to be on one's guard — more at hear
Date: 1566
1. : warning , admonishment
2. : precaution
3. : prudent forethought to minimize risk
4. : one that astonishes or commands attention
some shoes you see…these days are a caution — Esquire
• cau·tion·ary -shə-ˌner-ē, -ne-rē adjective
II. transitive verb
( cau·tioned ; cau·tion·ing ˈkȯ-sh(ə-)niŋ)
Date: 1683
: to advise caution to : warn