keep watch

Idioms  

1. Also,; watch over. Observe with continuous attention, especially to act as a sentinel or for protection. For example, Afraid that the wolves would return, she kept watch while the others slept, or They kept a close watch on the harbor, looking for signs of enemy ships, or, according to the Gospel of St. Luke (2:8): “And there were in the same country shepherds ... keeping watch over their flock by night.” [Late 1300s] Also see keep an eye out for.

---

Example Sentences

“I’ll get my slippers. You stay here and keep watch.”

From Literature

In a PJM control room about 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia, rotating teams of operators keep watch for threats to the grid’s stability.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bindi had vanished during the Covid pandemic, and Jilly spent her daily walks looking for her, posting appeals on social media and asking people in Haddenham to keep watch for her.

From BBC

"They make it seem like a dream job, but 100 euros to keep watch from 10 am to midnight at an hourly rate, that's exploitation," said a community activist who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal.

From Barron's

Monroe coach Leo Hernandez said he got his position in 1999 because he could run with his athletes to keep watch over them.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cruise
• inspect
• safeguard