beware

be-ware · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To be cautious and alert to dangers or risks.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Beware of the dog — A warning sign indicating a guard dog.
  • •
    Beware of Greeks bearing gifts — Be suspicious of enemies who appear friendly.

Related words

See also: careful, caution, warn
Synonyms: be careful, be cautious, watch out

Etymology

From Middle English, from be (imperative of "be") + war, ware ("cautious, aware"), from Old English wær ("aware, wary").