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Definition of wariness

wariness

/ˈwɛr.i.nəs/
war · i · ness
Adverb:warily
•
Adjective:wary
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wariness Lexical Profile

wariness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being cautious, watchful, and alert to potential dangers, risks, or problems.

Example

"The stray cat approached the food bowl with extreme wariness, ready to bolt at the slightest sound."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for wariness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for wariness

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'wariness' (the quality of being cautious and watchful, from 'wary') with 'weariness' (the state of being physically or mentally tired, from 'weary').

• Rhymes for wariness

• Nearby Words

warhead
warhorse
warily
wariness
warless
warlike
warlock

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'wary' plus the suffix '-ness'. 'Wary' derives from the earlier 'ware' (meaning cautious or aware), from Old English 'wær' ('watchful, prudent'), which traces back to the Proto-Germanic root *waraz.

Cite this Entry

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