overwatch
overwatch Lexical Profile
overwatch Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A state of watchful protection or tactical positioning in which one person or unit observes and covers another that is moving or performing a task.
"The rooftop team maintained overwatch while the rescue crew entered the damaged building."
• verb
To watch over and protect from a vantage point, or to supervise closely.
"The senior coordinator was assigned to overwatch the entire operation from the control room."
To exhaust or weary by excessive watching or staying awake (now rare or archaic).
"The sentries were completely overwatched after three consecutive nights on duty."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in English from the prefix 'over-' and 'watch', continuing Old English 'oferwæccan' (to watch over or keep vigil); the modern tactical noun sense was popularized by U.S. military doctrine in the mid-20th century.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.