watch-chain
Definition
Noun: A watch-chain is a small chain attached to a pocket watch, typically used to secure it to a garment (such as a waistcoat) to prevent loss or theft.
Usage Examples
- (The chain attached to the watch.)
- (The chain for a pocket watch.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be on a watch-chain": to be attached or connected to a pocket watch by such a chain.
- The locket hung from his waistcoat on a fine watch-chain. (The locket was suspended from the chain that held the watch.)
Variants and Related Words
- Watch (n): a small timepiece worn on the wrist or carried in a pocket.
- He forgot his watch at home. (A timekeeping device.)
- Chain (n): a series of metal links connected together.
- The dog was held by a heavy chain. (A linked metal cord.)
Synonyms
- Fob chain: a chain attached to a pocket watch, often with a decorative fob.
- Watch fob: a short chain or ribbon for a pocket watch.
Related Idioms
- "Watch-chain" is a specific term and does not commonly appear in idioms. However, the concept of a chain implies connection or security, as in the phrase (rare; metaphorically meaning tied to a routine or schedule).