Definitions

on the watch

ADJECTIVE

on one's guard

Synonyms

WEAK

alert careful cautious defensive guarded heedful mindful observant on guard on one's toes on the lookout upon one's guard vigilant watchful

ADJECTIVE

watchful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

attentive careful cautious observant suspicious vigilant wary

STRONG

alert

WEAK

all ears chary circumspect glued guarded heedful hooked keen not missing a trick on guard on one's toes on the ball on the job on the qui vive open-eyed prepared ready see after see to unsleeping wakeful wide-awake with eyes peeled

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless heedless inattentive incautious indiscreet rash thoughtless uncareful unobservant

WEAK

negligent

ADVERB

on guard

Synonyms

WEAK

alert careful cautious defensive guarded heedful mindful observant on one's guard on one's toes on the lookout vigilant wary watchful

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.

Or to put Wall Street on the watch for new highs.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

But Meta AI glasses are new, and while those devices aren’t as common, adults are on the watch now.

From Slate • Feb. 12, 2026

The starting bid on the watch, by the way, is $800,000 — with final bids that could possibly reach up to $2 million.

From Washington Times • Oct. 18, 2023

Ward is on the watch list for the Manning Award, which is given to the nation’s top quarterback.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 31, 2023

Philemon, however, was clearly proud and happy at being able to add such cheer to the supper and he kept on the watch to refill each cup as soon as it was emptied.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton

on the watch

Example Sentences

Related Words