WATCH
—verb. 1 keep the eyes fixed on. 2 keep under observation; follow observantly. 3 (often foll. By for) be in an alert state; be vigilant. 4 (foll. By over) look after; take care of. —none. 1 small portable timepiece for carrying on the wrist or in a pocket. 2 state of alert or constant observation or attention. 3 naut. A usually. Four-hour spell of duty. B (in full starboard or port watch) each of the halves into which a ship`s crew is divided to take alternate watches. 4 hist. Watchman or watchmen. ? on the watch for waiting for (an anticipated occurrence). Watch it (or oneself) colloq. Be careful. Watch out (often foll. By for) be on one`s guard. ? watcher none. (also in comb.). [old english: related to *wake1]