Search Dictionary
Definition of precautionary

precautionary

/prɪˈkɔː.ʃəˌnɛr.i/
pre · cau · tion · ar · y
JUMP TO:

precautionary Lexical Profile

precautionary Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Carried out as a prior measure to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening.

Example

"The hospital kept the patient overnight for observation purely as a precautionary measure."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for precautionary
Antonyms
View all antonyms for precautionary

• Rhymes for precautionary

• Nearby Words

precariousness
precast
precaution
precautionary
precede
precedence
precedent

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 17th century from 'precaution' plus the suffix '-ary'. The root 'precaution' comes via French from Late Latin 'praecautionem', meaning a guarding beforehand, from 'prae-' (before) and 'cavere' (to be on one's guard).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Precautionary. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/precautionary
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.