watch

like watching paint dry: seepaint.

set your watch by someone used to suggest that someone is reliably punctual, and by extension perhaps too predictable in their habits.

watch the clock: seeclock.

watch someone like a hawk: seehawk.

watch the pennies: seecount the penniesatpenny.

watch someone's smoke: seesmoke.

watch this space: seespace.

watch the time ensure that you are aware of the time, typically in order to avoid being late.

watch the world go by spend time observing other people going about their business.

1996Europe: Rough Guide Outdoor seating allows you to watch the world go by or to play a game of chess with giant chess pieces under the trees.

watch your mouth: seemouth.

watch your step: see mind your step atstep.

watch your (or someone's) back protect yourself (or someone else) against danger from an unexpected quarter.

the watches of the night the hours of night, especially viewed as a time when you cannot sleep. literary

☞ A watch was originally each of the three or four periods of time into which the night was divided, during which a guard would be stationed to keep a lookout for danger or trouble.