Prewarning

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An advance alert or notification given prior to an event or action to inform someone about potential developments or hazards
2. A preliminary cautionary notice issued before an occurrence to prepare individuals for possible outcomes or changes
3. An early advisory provided ahead of time to warn about forthcoming situations or risks that may require attention or response

Etymology: "Prewarning" is a plain formation: the prefix "pre-", meaning "before", attached to "warn", which comes from Old English "wearnian", meaning to be cautious or to take heed. Put together, the two parts describe a warning given ahead of time, so the word needs no special story beyond its parts. The prefix "pre-" comes from Latin "prae", "before", and it has been used freely in English for centuries to build words like "preview" or "predate". Attaching it to "warn" follows that same pattern, and the result is a noun that names the act or notice of warning in advance.

Synonyms: forewarning, advance notice, alert, caution, heads-up

Antonyms: surprise, shock