Cautious
/ˈkɔː.ʃəs/noun
Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.
Did you know?The term 'cautious' derives from Latin roots associated with being 'watchful', revealing a deep-seated instinct to protect oneself from unseen threats.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ḱewə-
“to perceive, to be aware”
Latin
Latin
cautus
“guarded, wary, careful”
Old French
Old French
cautieux
“careful, prudent”
Middle English
Middle English
caucious
“careful, heedful”
Modern English
English
cautious
“careful to avoid danger or mistakes”