careful

The definition of careful is someone or something that works or thinks in a cautious, thorough or thoughtful way.

(adjective)

  1. A mountain climber who triple checks their safety gear is an example of careful.
  2. A person who is very detailed is an example of careful.
  3. Purposely making very little noise while someone is sleeping is an example of careful.

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See careful in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. acting or working in a thoughtful, painstaking way
  2. cautious, wary, or guarded: a careful reply
  3. accurately or thoroughly done or made; painstaking: a careful analysis
  4. Archaic feeling or causing sorrow, worry, etc.; anxious

Origin: ME & OE: see care & -ful

Related Forms:

See careful in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Attentive to potential danger, error, or harm; cautious: was careful when crossing the busy street; gave a careful answer.
  2. Thorough and painstaking in action or execution; conscientious: a careful search; careful art restorers.
  3. Protective; solicitous: Be careful of his feelings.
  4. Full of cares or anxiety: “Thou art careful and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:41).

Related Forms:

  • careˈful·ly adverb
  • careˈful·ness noun

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