night watchman

American  

Or night-watchman

noun

1. watchman.

2. Cricket. a batsman who is sent in to bat just before the end of a day's play and continues his innings on the next day of play.

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night watchman British  

noun

1. Also called: night watch.  a person who keeps guard at night on a factory, public building, etc

2. cricket a batsman sent in to bat to play out time when a wicket has fallen near the end of a day's play

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Etymology

Origin of night watchman

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Reyne took over as night watchman, with his tent on the asphalt in the parking lot behind.

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

At the time of the record destruction, which was revealed by a night watchman who saw it happening and saved some documents, UBS was under scrutiny for its wartime activities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

Last month, Richard Abath, the night watchman who mistakenly allowed in the thieves, died at 57.

From New York Times • Mar. 18, 2024

Gideon Matua, a night watchman in Kampala who bets regularly said two friends recently lost their jobs after losing other people’s money.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 16, 2022

Sister Gladys had pronounced her the night watchman and given her the duty of calling for help if anyone became especially ill.

From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer