Warinesses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A state of being cautious and alert to potential dangers or risks
2. The quality of being watchful and mindful about circumstances that might require vigilance
3. An attitude characterized by careful consideration and discretion in reacting to uncertain situations

Etymology: "Warinesses" is simply the plural of "wariness", a noun formed from the adjective "wary" and the suffix "-ness". "Wary" traces back to Old English "wær", meaning aware or cautious, and the suffix "-ness" was used to turn adjectives into abstract nouns for states or qualities, so "wariness" names the state of being on guard. The plural form pluralizes that state, treating separate instances of cautious attentiveness as distinct occurrences, as in several different moments of watchfulness.

Synonyms: caution, vigilance

Antonyms: carelessness, naivety