# watchful

/ˈwɑtʃfəɫ/ (US) · /wˈɒtʃfəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/watchful
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

paying close attention to what is happening around you. You do this to stay safe or to make sure nothing goes wrong.

For teachers: characterised by careful observation and alertness to potential danger or change. Often used to describe a state of protective or cautious monitoring.

## Examples

- The mother kept a watchful eye on her children at the park.
- Security guards remained watchful throughout the night to ensure no unauthorized person entered the building.
- Under the watchful gaze of the international community, the two nations began the delicate process of negotiating a lasting peace treaty.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the fixed phrase 'keep a watchful eye on'. Often follows linking verbs like 'remain', 'stay', or 'be'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.