watchful Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective engaged in or accustomed to close observation
    alert.
    • caught by a couple of alert cops
    • alert enough to spot the opportunity when it came
    • constantly alert and vigilant, like a sentinel on duty
  2. adjective satellite experiencing or accompanied by sleeplessness
    sleepless; insomniac.
    • insomniac old people
    • insomniac nights
    • lay sleepless all night
    • twenty watchful, weary, tedious nights"- Shakespeare

WordNet


Watch"ful adjective
Definitions
  1. Full of watch; vigilant; attentive; careful to observe closely; observant; cautious; -- with of before the thing to be regulated or guarded; as, to be watchful of one's behavior; and with against before the thing to be avoided; as, to be watchful against the growth of vicious habits. "Many a watchful night." Shak. "Happy watchful shepherds." Milton.
    'Twixt prayer and watchful love his heart dividing. Keble.
    Syn. -- Vigilant; attentive; cautious; observant; circumspect; wakeful; heedful. -- Watch"ful*ly, adv. -- Watch"ful*ness, n.

Webster 1913