caution

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)Prudence when faced with, or when expecting to face, danger; care taken in order to avoid risk or harm.

   “take caution”

   “have caution”

   “exercise great caution”

   “utmost caution is required when travelling in this dangerous neighbourhood”

   “act with caution”

2. (countable, uncountable)A careful attention to the probable effects of an act, in order that failure or harm may be avoided.

   “The guideline expressed caution against excessive radiographic imaging.”

3. (countable, uncountable)Security; guaranty; bail.

   “The Parliament would yet give his majesty sufficient caution that the war should be vigorously prosecuted.”

4. (countable, dated, uncountable)One who draws attention or causes astonishment by their behaviour.

   “Oh, that boy, he's a caution! He does make me laugh.”

   “‘You are a caution,’ she said, when she came out. ‘I don't understand you.’”

5. (countable, uncountable)A formal warning given as an alternative to prosecution in minor cases.
6. (countable, uncountable)A yellow card.

verb

1. (transitive)To warn; to alert, advise that caution is warranted.

   “In its May 1965 issue, Life magazine condemned skateboards as a “menace to limb and even to life,” and cautioned readers about riders who “take over the paths made for peaceful strollers.””

2. To give a yellow card.