heads-up 1 of 2

noun

ˈhedz-ˈəp How to pronounce heads-up (audio)
Definition of heads-upnext
as in warning
the act or an instance of telling beforehand of danger or risk thanks for the heads-up about the upcoming visit from the corporate big shots

Synonyms & Similar Words

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heads-up

2 of 2

adjective

as in aware

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of heads-up
Noun
No need to make this overly dramatic, but a quick heads-up before the event can go a long way. — Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 4 June 2026 Thanks to the heads-up from her boss, only Patty García had time to gather enough signatures to get on the ballot for the Democratic primary. — Jack O'Connor, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 2026
Adjective
Caglianone soon scored the a go-ahead run on some heads-up baserunning. — Kansas City Star, 12 Aug. 2026 On the night of the viral encounter, the couple had already put their toddler to bed and were getting ready for sleep when their next-door neighbors called with a heads-up. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for heads-up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for heads-up
  1. warning
  2. aware
  3. wary
  4. mindful
  5. vigilant
  6. watchful
  7. engaged
  8. observant
Noun
  • Less pleading and more of a warning, Beyoncé’s version of the beloved hit features different lyrics and an introduction that directly references the original track.
    — Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026
  • The letter adds to a growing chorus of warnings about the dangers associated with advanced AI and comes shortly after a series of high-profile incidents in which flagship models tested by Anthropic and OpenAI breached testing safeguards.
    — Sam Meredith, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of warning
Adjective
  • No one should underestimate the mortal significance of medical discreetness; researchers are well aware that many patients risk their own health due to the stigma associated with requiring medical help.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Most law firms are likely not even aware of Google’s new offerings, and yet the capabilities and benefits appear to be substantial – and cost-effective.
    — Gene Marks, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of aware
Adjective
  • The decision suggests the companies believe that foreign investors remain wary of putting new money into the kingdom’s stock exchange, and will likely put off other firms planning IPOs in the short term.
    — Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Koreans are wary of methods to turn housing wealth into cash.
    — Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of wary
Adjective
  • However, consumers should also be mindful of the potential high salt content in canned fish, as well as the amount of mercury in bigger fish like tuna, the experts noted.
    — Diana Anos, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2026
  • The Irish Examiner spoke with a young crafter who described cooking alongside knitting and crochet as some of her most mindful time, because the activities require her full attention.
    — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of mindful
Adjective
  • Authorities in Indiana are warning residents to be vigilant after a person reported spotting a several-hundred-pound lioness and a large cub roaming in one central county.
    — Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
  • As arousal rises, the brain becomes temporarily more vigilant and focused.
    — Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of vigilant
Adjective
  • Views extend to the valley of the Kosi River on one side and the Binsar Forest on the other, all under the watchful gaze of the upper Himalayas, including the divine Nanda Devi peak.
    — Jasreen Mayal Khanna, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Located at the very north end of Napa Valley, the winery has changed hands a few times but today it is owned by Jackson Family Wines and is under the watchful eye of Barbara Banke and her children.
    — Mike DeSimone, Robb Report, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of watchful
Adjective
  • But writing notes by hand requires a more engaged mental filter.
    — Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026
  • By creating measurable value today, employees become more engaged in their roles.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of engaged
Adjective
  • The Beth Din of America, a rabbinical court in New York City, arbitrates disputes for observant Jews under Jewish law.
    — Asma Uddin, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026
  • This is particularly important to them as religiously observant Jews, like most settlers.
    — Dina Kraft, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of observant

Browse Nearby Words

headstrong
heads-up
heads-ups
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Heads-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/heads-up. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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