The meaning of CAUTIONARY is of, relating to, or constituting a cautio or a caution. How to use cautionary in a sentence.

CAUTIONARY definition: 1. giving a warning 2. giving a warning. Learn more.

Define cautionary. cautionary synonyms, cautionary pronunciation, cautionary translation, English dictionary definition of cautionary. adj. Giving or serving as a warning; admonitory: a …

Definition of cautionary adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Dec 11, 2025 · cautionary (comparative more cautionary, superlative most cautionary) Serving to caution or warn; admonitory

CAUTIONARY definition: of the nature of or containing a warning. See examples of cautionary used in a sentence.

cautionary in American English (ˈkɔʃənˌɛri ) adjective urging caution or intended to warn; warning; admonishing

There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the word cautionary, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Cautionary definition: Giving or serving as a warning; admonitory.

When something is cautionary, it’s meant to be a warning to you. Your parents might be fond of telling cautionary tales, like the one about the girl who got electrocuted sticking a knife into the …