caution
caution (kôʹshən) noun
1. a. Careful forethought to avoid danger or harm. b. Close attention or vigilance to minimize risk: The car proceeded over the rickety bridge with caution.
2. Prudence or restraint in action or decision: advised caution in choosing a school.
3. A warning or admonishment, especially to take heed: I received a caution from the doctor about fat in my diet.
4. A cautious action; a precaution: The climbers took the necessary cautions in preparing for the ascent.
5. Informal. One that is striking or alarming.
verb, transitive
cautioned, cautioning, cautions
To advise to take heed; warn or admonish. See synonyms at warn.
[Middle English caucioun, from Old French caution, from Latin cautiō, cautiōn-, from cautus past participle of cavēre, to take care.]