watchtower
|watch/tow/er|
B1
🇺🇸
/ˈwɑːtʃˌtaʊər/
🇬🇧
/ˈwɒtʃˌtaʊə/
observation structure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'watchtower' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'wæcce' meaning 'watch' and 'torr' meaning 'tower'.
Historical Evolution
'wæcce torr' transformed into the Middle English word 'wacchetour', and eventually became the modern English word 'watchtower'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a tower for watching', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a tall structure built to observe and watch over a particular area, often used for military or security purposes.
The soldiers stood guard in the watchtower, scanning the horizon for any signs of movement.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/12 14:37