watch
watch
UK[wɒtʃ]US[wɑːtʃ]
v
To look at or observe attentively over a period of time.
v
To be careful or vigilant about something.
n
A small timepiece worn typically on the wrist.
n
The act or duty of keeping a lookout.
Etymology
The word 'watch' originates from the Old English 'wæccan', meaning "to be awake, keep vigil." This term is part of a common Germanic root related to wakefulness, seen in Old High German 'wahtēn' and Old Norse 'vaka'. The semantic journey connects the core idea of staying awake and alert to the act of careful observation. Over time, this extended to the device that "watches" or measures time for you, especially during periods of vigilance like a night watch, leading to its modern meanings encompassing both attentive looking and a portable timepiece.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The modern form 'watch' evolved directly from the Old English verb 'wæccan' (to be awake, keep watch) and the related noun 'wæcce' (a watch, vigil). It is not productively composed of separable modern English morphemes.
Examples
The security guard will watch the entrance all night.
You should watch your spending if you want to save money.
She glanced at her watch to check the time.