watchdog
|watch/dog|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈwɑːtʃˌdɔːɡ/
🇬🇧
/ˈwɒtʃˌdɒɡ/
guardian or monitor
Etymology
Etymology Information
'watchdog' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'wæccan' meaning 'to watch' and 'docga' meaning 'dog'.
Historical Evolution
'wæccan' and 'docga' combined in Middle English to form 'watchdog', eventually becoming the modern English word 'watchdog'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a dog that watches over property', but over time it evolved to include the meaning of 'a person or group that monitors activities'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person or group that monitors the actions of others to ensure they are legal or ethical.
The organization acts as a watchdog to prevent corruption.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41