watch-tower
Definition
- Noun:
- A tower for observation: "watch-tower" refers to a tall structure built to provide a high vantage point for observing a surrounding area, typically used for security, surveillance, or military purposes.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The soldiers kept a constant lookout from the watch-tower. (They used the tower to observe for enemies or threats.)
- During the medieval period, a watch-tower was often part of a castle's defensive system. (The tower allowed guards to see approaching armies.)
Advanced Usage
- "to man a watch-tower": to be stationed in a watch-tower for the purpose of observation.
- They assigned two guards to man the watch-tower every night. (The guards were responsible for keeping watch from the tower.)
Variants and Related Words
Watchtower (n): an alternative spelling without a hyphen (same meaning).
- The watchtower overlooked the entire valley. (The tower provided a panoramic view.)
Watch (n): the act of keeping a lookout; a period of duty.
- He was on watch from midnight until dawn. (He was responsible for observing during that time.)
Tower (n): a tall, narrow building or structure.
- The bell tower stood next to the church. (A tall structure for bells.)
Synonyms
- Lookout tower: a tower used for observation.
- Observation post: a position or structure for watching, often in a military context.
- Guard tower: a tower where guards are stationed for security.
Related Idioms
- "to be on the watchtower": to be in a position of vigilance or observation (figurative).
- As a financial analyst, she is always on the watchtower for market trends. (She is constantly alert for changes.)
Phrasal Verbs (related concepts)
Watch over: to guard or protect from a position of observation.
- The watchman watched over the warehouse from the tower. (He ensured nothing was stolen or damaged.)
Look out for: to be vigilant for potential dangers.
- From the watch-tower, they looked out for enemy ships. (They scanned the horizon for threats.)