Word Direct Answers

What does "ware" mean?

Ware: Note: Although originally and properly a collective noun, it admits of a plural form, when articles of merchandise of different kinds are meant. It is often used in composition; as in hardware, glassware, tinware, etc.

Additional senses

  1. 2.A ware; taking notice; hence, wary; cautious; on one's guard. See Beware. [Obs.] She was ware and knew it bet [better] than he. Chaucer. Of whom be thou ware also.
  2. 3.Tim. iv.
  3. 4.He is ware enough; he is wily and circumspect for stirring up any sedition. Latimer. The only good that grows of passed fear Is to be wise, and ware of like again. Spenser.
  4. 5.The state of being ware or aware; heed. [Obs.] Wyclif.
  5. 6.To make ware; to warn; to take heed of; to beware of; to guard against. "Ware that I say." Chaucer. God . . . ware you for the sin of avarice. Chaucer. Then ware a rising tempest on the main. Dryden.

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