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Definition of precaution

precaution

/prɪˈkɔː.ʃən/
pre · cau · tion
Plural:precautions
•
Adjective:precautionary
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precaution Lexical Profile

precaution Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A measure taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening.

Example

"The hikers packed extra water and thermal blankets as a precaution against sudden changes in mountain weather."

2

Care, forethought, or prudence exercised in advance to avoid potential risk or harm.

Example

"With proper precaution and regular maintenance, most laboratory accidents can be easily avoided."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for precaution

• Nearby Words

precariously
precariousness
precast
precaution
precautionary
precede
precedence

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from French précaution, from Late Latin praecautio, a noun of action from the verb praecavere ('to guard against beforehand'), formed from prae- ('before') and cavere ('to beware, take heed').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Precaution. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/precaution
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