verb

overwatch

Overwatch (verb) means to keep watch over something from a position of protection or support. Example: “One soldier stayed behind to overwatch the patrol as it advanced.”

verb

To keep watch over something from a position of protection or support.

"One soldier stayed behind to overwatch the patrol as it advanced."

noun

The act of one unit protecting or supporting another while it moves or fires.

"The squad provided overwatch while the rest of the team crossed the open ground."

How to use overwatch

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWatching over and protecting someone, especially in a military sense.

Common pairings

provide overwatch overwatch position

Word forms

overwatched past tense, overwatches singular

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One soldier stayed behind to _____ the patrol as it advanced.

Etymology

Formed from over- + watch, as a back-formation from the phrase "watch over."

Frequently asked questions

What does “overwatch” mean?

The word “overwatch” means to keep watch over something from a position of protection or support. In plain terms, watching over and protecting someone, especially in a military sense.

How do you use “overwatch” in a sentence?

Here is “overwatch” used in a sentence: “One soldier stayed behind to overwatch the patrol as it advanced.”

What part of speech is “overwatch”?

Depending on how it is used, “overwatch” can be a verb and a noun.

How many meanings does “overwatch” have?

“Overwatch” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to keep watch over something from a position of protection or support.