watchful
Translation
watchful, vigilant, alert
Examples
He kept a watchful eye on the children.
He kept a watchful eye on the children.
The cat was watchful of the mouse.
The cat was watchful of the mouse.
Grammar Patterns
watchful of (sb./sth.) to be alert to (sb./sth.) The dog was watchful of strangers.
a watchful eye on (sb./sth.) a careful observation of (sb./sth.) Keep a watchful eye on the time.
Similar Words
Synonyms: alert, vigilant, observant; Antonyms: inattentive, careless
Etymology
From 'watch' (to look at) and the suffix '-ful' (full of). Literally, 'full of watching'.
Memory Tips
Picture a guard in a watchtower, being 'full of watch' or 'watchful' over the area.