Watch"ful (?), a.

Full of watch; vigilant; attentive; careful to observe closely; observant; cautious; -- with of before the thing to be regulated or guarded; as, to be watchful of one's behavior; and with against before the thing to be avoided; as, to be watchful against the growth of vicious habits.

"Many a watchful night." Shak. "Happy watchful shepherds." Milton.

'Twixt prayer and watchful love his heart dividing. Keble.

Syn. -- Vigilant; attentive; cautious; observant; circumspect; wakeful; heedful.

-- Watch"ful*ly, adv. -- Watch"ful*ness, n.

 

© Webster 1913.