Definition of watch

Short definition: The word watch refers to a device worn on the wrist to tell time or the act of paying attention by looking at something closely, whether for enjoyment, safety, or understanding what is happening.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word watch? The word watch is very common in English and can be used in more than one way. Sometimes it refers to a small clock worn on the wrist, and sometimes it means paying attention to something with your eyes. You will hear it in daily conversation, instructions, stories, and technology contexts. Because it works as both a noun and a verb, its meaning depends heavily on how it is used. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and practical.

Forms: watch, watches, watched, watching
Related: time n., clock n., observe v.
Syllable: watch

1. (Noun) A small timekeeping device worn on the wrist to tell the time and sometimes show the date.

   A watch is a portable clock designed to be worn on the wrist, usually held in place by a strap or bracelet, allowing people to check the time easily throughout the day without using a phone or wall clock.

   He checked his watch repeatedly during the meeting because he had another appointment right after.
   She received a classic leather watch as a graduation gift that she plans to wear every day.
   The old watch still worked perfectly even after many years of use.

   Synonyms: wristwatch, timepiece, wrist clock, digital watch, analog watch, hand watch, wearable clock, time device, watchpiece, personal clock, wrist timer, timekeeper
   Antonyms: wall clock, desk clock, timer only, phone display, clock tower, sundial, hourglass, no timepiece, time free, untimed, timeless state, no device

2. (Verb) To look at something carefully for a period of time and pay attention to what is happening.

   To watch means to look at something with attention and interest, usually over a period of time, in order to see what happens, enjoy it, or make sure nothing goes wrong.

   They sat quietly to watch the sunset slowly change the colors of the sky.
   She likes to watch movies at night as a way to relax after work.
   He was asked to watch the children while the parents were away.

   Synonyms: look at, observe, view, see, monitor, follow, keep an eye on, pay attention to, track, notice, check on, oversee
   Antonyms: ignore, miss, overlook, disregard, avoid looking at, neglect, look away, forget, skip, lose sight of, dismiss, be unaware

3. (Verb) To be careful about something or stay alert to possible problems.

   Watch can also mean to stay alert or be cautious about a situation, behavior, or possible danger, often used in warnings or advice.

   You should watch your step because the floor is slippery near the entrance.
   The doctor told him to watch his diet after the health check.
   She watched her tone carefully during the discussion to avoid misunderstanding.

   Synonyms: be careful of, monitor, guard against, keep track of, stay alert to, pay attention to, be mindful of, keep an eye on, be cautious about, look out for, stay aware of, observe closely
   Antonyms: neglect, ignore, be careless about, overlook, forget about, pay no attention to, dismiss, be unaware of, disregard warnings, act blindly, ignore risks, be careless