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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Security; guaranty; bail. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

The Parliament would yet give his majesty sufficient caution that the war should be prosecuted. Clarendon. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Precept or warning against evil of any kind; exhortation to wariness; advice; injunction. [ 1913 Webster ]

In way of caution I must tell you. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Civil & Scots Law) A pledge, bond, or other security for the performance of an obligation either in or out of judicial proceedings; the promise or contract of one not for himself but another; security. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Cautioned p. pr. & vb. n. Cautioning. ] To give notice of danger to; to warn; to exhort [ one ] to take heed. [ 1913 Webster ]

You cautioned me against their charms. Swift. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. 1. Conveying a caution, or warning to avoid danger; as, cautionary signals. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Given as a pledge or as security. [ 1913 Webster ]

He hated Barnevelt, for his getting the cautionary towns out of his hands. Bp. Burnet. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Wary; cautious. [ Obs. ] Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

. (Railroads) A block in which two or more trains are permitted to travel, under restrictions imposed by a caution card or the like. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]

n. 1. One who cautions or advises. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Scots Law) A surety or sponsor. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. (Scots Law) Suretyship. [ 1913 Webster ]