Warning

Definition

Warning is a noun referring to a statement or sign indicating danger, harm, or the need for caution. As an adjective, it describes something that serves to alert or caution. As a verb, it is the present participle of "warn."

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb (present participle)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɔːr.nɪŋ/
• Respelling: WAR-ning

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɔː.nɪŋ/
• Respelling: WAWR-ning

Etymology

The word "warning" originates from Old English "warnian," meaning "to give notice of danger," derived from Proto-Germanic "*warnōną," meaning "to be cautious or aware." Its modern use dates back to Middle English, emphasizing cautionary advice or alerts.

Derivatives

• Warn (verb)
• Warningly (adverb)
• Pre-warning (noun)
• Overwarning (noun, rare)
• Warnable (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Caution
• Alert
• Notice

Antonyms

• Reassurance
• Encouragement
• Approval

Usage

The noun "warning" is commonly used to describe alerts or notifications of potential danger, as in "The weather forecast issued a warning for heavy rain." As an adjective, it describes cautionary measures, as in "The warning signs were visible on the road."

Related Terms

• Caution: Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes.
• Alert: A state of readiness or notice of danger.
• Advisory: Official information or recommendations.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A statement or sign indicating danger or the need for caution: Refers to alerts or notices about risks.
  • Example: "The sign served as a warning to drivers about icy conditions."
• An act of notifying someone about potential issues: Refers to the communication of caution.
  • Example: "He issued a warning about the consequences of the decision."

Adjective

• Serving to alert or caution: Describes something that indicates or prevents danger.
  • Example: "The warning signals were loud and clear."

Verb (present participle)

• The act of alerting or cautioning someone: Refers to the ongoing process of warning.
  • Example: "He was warning everyone about the approaching storm."