warn
warn
UK[wɔːn]US[wɔːrn]
v
To tell someone about a possible danger or problem so that they can avoid it or deal with it.
v
To tell someone not to do something because it is dangerous, wrong, or could cause problems.
Etymology
The verb 'warn' originates from the Old English 'warnian', meaning "to take heed, give notice of danger." This Old English term is of Germanic origin, related to Old High German 'warnon' (to take heed) and Old Norse 'varna' (to refuse, deny). The core Proto-Germanic root warnōną is thought to be connected to the idea of making someone aware or cautious. Over time, the sense evolved from a general notion of being cautious to the more specific modern meaning of informing someone of impending danger or advising them against a harmful course of action.
Analysis
The word 'warn' is a simplex word derived from a single, tight Germanic root. It is not productively composed of smaller, separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
I tried to warn him about the icy roads, but he didn't listen.
The label on the medicine warns against operating heavy machinery.
Authorities have issued a statement to warn the public of the scam.