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What is the Meaning of “Watch”?

Showing meaning 1 of 2 · Watch has 2 distinct meanings in English.

Watch
/wɒtʃ/

Portable clock worn on your arm to tell time.

Definition of Watch (meaning 1 of 2 — noun)

Quick Meaning of Watch

Portable clock worn on your arm to tell time.

Detailed Definition of Watch

A small timepiece worn on the wrist.

How to Pronounce Watch

IPA: /wɒtʃ/
watch

Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).

Tip: Rhymes with 'catch'. First syllable stressed, 'w' sound like in 'water'.

Full pronunciation guide for “watch” →

Other Meanings of Watch

“Watch” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:

Origin and Etymology of Watch

From Old English 'wæcce', related to waking or keeping guard.

How to Use Watch in a Sentence

Each example shows “watch” in the meaning “Portable clock worn on your arm to tell…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “She checked her watch before the meeting.”
    A1 daily
  • “My grandfather's watch is made of gold.”
    A2 conversation
  • “The smartwatch monitors your heart rate continuously.”
    B1 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Watch

Common Synonyms for Watch

Smart Synonyms for Watch — When to Use Each

timepiece
formal term for any time-measuring device
chronograph
specialized watch with stopwatch function

See all synonyms for “watch” →

Common Collocations with Watch

These phrases pair with “watch” in everyday English:

  • wear a watch
  • check your watch
  • digital watch

Common Mistakes When Using Watch

Even fluent speakers slip up with “watch”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: I am watching my watch.
✓ Correct: I am checking my watch.
Why: 'Watch' as noun doesn't use 'watch' as verb in this context.
✗ Wrong: He put on his clock.
✓ Correct: He put on his watch.
Why: Clocks are fixed devices; watches are worn.

Other Forms of Watch

Frequently Asked Questions About Watch

What is the meaning of "Watch"?

Portable clock worn on your arm to tell time.

How do you pronounce "Watch"?

The IPA is /wɒtʃ/. Rhymes with 'catch'. First syllable stressed, 'w' sound like in 'water'.

What part of speech is "Watch"?

"Watch" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Watch"?

Common synonyms include timepiece, wristwatch, chronograph.

How do you use "Watch" in a sentence?

For example: "She checked her watch before the meeting."

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