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watch list

American  
Or watchlist

noun

  1. a list of persons or things to watch for possible action in the future.

    a watch list of possible growth stocks.


Etymology

Origin of watch list

First recorded in 1970–75


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Fitch Ratings recently downgraded the project’s $1.2-billion senior bond to its negative watch list.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 24, 2026

A worker dismissed by the makers of Grand Theft Auto claimed colleagues were placed on a "watch list" after signing a petition about remote working.

From BBC ● Sep. 11, 2026

Standouts for your weekend watch list: If you’re going to the movies this weekend, check out Anne Hathaway’s new dinosaur film, The End of Oak Street.

From Slate ● Aug. 14, 2026

That means investors should compile a watch list of areas they may want to buy on weakness.

From Barron's ● Jun. 11, 2026

“It’s on my watch list, but I haven’t started this season. I’ll let you know.”

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed

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