clock-watching
|clock-watch-ing|
🇺🇸
/ˈklɑːk ˌwɑːtʃɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˈklɒk ˌwɒtʃɪŋ/
(clock-watch)
frequent time-checking
Etymology
'clock-watching' originates from the combination of 'clock' and 'watching', where 'clock' refers to a timekeeping device and 'watching' means observing.
'Clock-watching' evolved from the practice of employees frequently checking the time during work hours.
Initially, it meant 'observing the clock', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'frequently checking the time due to boredom or anticipation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of frequently checking the time, often due to boredom or anticipation of the end of a work period.
His clock-watching during the meeting was quite noticeable.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40