adjective
-
vigilant or alert
-
archaic not sleeping
Synonym Usage
See alert.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of watchful
Explanation
To be watchful is to be alert and aware. A watchful dog might keep an eye on the sidewalk in front of your house all afternoon. The adjective watchful is good for describing someone who keeps an attentive eye on things. A watchful teacher, for example, knows immediately when a student is being teased, and a watchful driver is quick to stop for a pedestrian crossing the street. When you're on the lookout, you're being watchful. The word comes from the Middle English waccheful, which used to have an alternate meaning of "wakeful" or "sleepless."
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.
The author, restrained and watchful, proves the exception.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 9, 2026
Investors had braced in recent weeks for a higher-for-longer posture from the Fed, but this was sharper and reflected a committee inching from a watchful hold toward readiness to raise rates.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 17, 2026
But for a teenager in rebellion from her watchful mother, the vibrant, music-filled street life comes with its share of dangers.
From Los Angeles Times • May 30, 2026
From the age of seven, the star began honing his craft at the 3 Hammers Golf Complex under the watchful eye of pro Darren Prosser.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
His mother, wanting the best for him, sent him off to learn a trade in Tennessee under the watchful eye of a white tailor there.
From "A Few Red Drops: The Chicago Race Riot of 1919" by Claire Hartfield
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
