caution
UK[ˈkɔːʃn]US[ˈkɑːʃn]
n
Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes.
v
To warn someone about a possible danger or problem.
Morpheme Breakdown
caut
ion
caut
beware
ion
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'caution' entered English in the 13th century via Anglo-French, tracing its lineage directly to the Latin cautiōnem, meaning 'a taking care, precaution'. This Latin noun is derived from cautus, the past participle of the verb cavēre, which carries the core sense 'to be on guard, beware'. The semantic journey is remarkably direct: from the literal act of being watchful and wary in Latin to the modern abstract concept of carefulness to prevent risk or error. The suffix '-ion' solidifies this action or state into a noun, encapsulating the principle of prudent forethought.
Analysis
Structure: caut (beware) + ion (noun suffix)
'caut' originates from Latin cautus, the past participle of cavēre meaning 'to be on guard, beware'. 'ion' is a noun-forming suffix of Latin origin, indicating an action, process, or state.
Examples
Proceed with caution on the icy roads.
The sign was placed to caution drivers about the sharp bend ahead.
He advised a note of caution before investing in the new venture.