First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
warn
verb \ˈwȯrn\
: to tell (someone) about possible danger or trouble
: to tell (someone) to do or not to do something in order to avoid danger or trouble
Full Definition of WARN
transitive verb
1
2
: to order to go or stay away —often used with off
intransitive verb
: to give a warning
— warn·er noun
See warn defined for English-language learners
See warn defined for kids
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Origin of WARN
Middle English, from Old English warnian; akin to Old High German warnōn to take heed, Old English wær careful, aware — more at wary
WARNED Defined for Kids
warn
verb \ˈwȯrn\
warnedwarn·ing
Definition of WARN for Kids
1
: to put on guard : caution
2
: to notify especially in advance <I warned you I might not stay long.>
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