What does monitory mean?
Monitory is a formal adjective meaning that something warns, cautions, or expresses disapproval. It commonly describes a manner of speaking, a look, a gesture, or a written remark that reminds someone to avoid undesirable conduct. The word often implies firmness or mild reproach rather than a casual warning: a monitory glance or tone can indicate that a person believes they have done something wrong or need to be more careful. Although it is related in meaning to words such as cautionary, admonitory, and warning, monitory is comparatively uncommon in modern conversation and is most likely to appear in literary descriptions, formal prose, or older texts. Its uncommon status gives it a somewhat stern and elevated tone, making it especially suitable for precise descriptions of a warning delivered through a glance, gesture, or brief remark.
adjectiveGiving a warning or expressing disapproval, especially in a stern or admonitory manner.
- Giving a warning, caution, or admonition.
"His monitory glance reminded us to remain silent."
"The teacher issued a monitory warning against late arrivals."
"She turned to him with a monitory expression before leaving the room."
Monitory comes from the Latin monēre, meaning “to warn”—the same root behind monitor, monition, and admonish.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does monitory come from?
Monitory entered English in the early 17th century from the Latin adjective monitōrius, meaning “of or relating to admonition” or “warning.” This was formed from monēre, “to warn” or “to admonish,” the same Latin root that produced English words including monitor, monition, admonish, and admonition.
How monitory is actually used
Monitory is rare and formal or literary. It is more often encountered in literary prose and older writing than in everyday speech.