Warn

/wɔrn/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to inform someone about a possible danger or problem

She warned him about the slippery floor.

to advise someone to be cautious or to take care

The weather service warned of severe storms approaching.

to give notice to someone not to do something

He was warned not to speak during the presentation.

to notify someone in advance of something that may happen

They warned us that the traffic would be heavy due to construction.

Middle English 'warnen', from Old English 'wyrrnan'; related to 'worthy'.

warn someone off

To advise someone to stay away from a particular person or place.

warning signs

Indications or signals that something dangerous may happen.

warn against

To advise someone not to do something.

caution

Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes.

alert

A state of heightened awareness of possible danger.

advisory

A notice giving information or warning.

To hint at something unfavorable without directly stating it.

He kinda warned me about that party, saying it might get wild.

To tell someone to be careful about a situation.

She warned me to watch my back around those guys.