watch chain

noun

1. a chain, frequently of gold or silver, attached to a pocket watch, serving as an ornament and, when passed through a buttonhole in the vest, as a guard against loss or theft of the watch.

watch chain

noun

1. See fob
   a chain used for fastening a pocket watch to the clothing See also fob 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of watch chain¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

I think he tried to be kind, an' he gin her a lil ivory book he had on his watch-chain, but you see he didn't feel it.

From Project Gutenberg

See him with his goold watch chain clankin' again th' pearl buttons iv his vest.

From Project Gutenberg

Then I assumed an air of frigid composure, and toyed with my watch-chain.

From Project Gutenberg

"He must be a wealthy man," remarked the doctor, his eyes on the watch-chain and the good clothes.

From Project Gutenberg

The physician turned to Sidney, who played with his watch-chain, and smiled up in his face.

From Project Gutenberg