Wristwatch: meaning, definitions and examples

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wristwatch

 

[ ˈrɪstˌwɒtʃ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

wear on wrist

A wristwatch is a small clock that you wear on your wrist, with a strap around it.

Synonyms

timekeeper, timepiece, watch.

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Word Description / Examples
wristwatch

Used to refer specifically to a small clock that is worn on the wrist.

  • He glanced at his wristwatch to check the time.
  • This wristwatch was a gift from my grandfather.
  • She prefers wristwatches over smartwatches.
watch

A general term for a portable timepiece that can be worn or carried. It includes both wristwatches and pocket watches. Versatile and can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • She wears a digital watch during her workouts.
  • He forgot to set his watch to the correct time zone.
  • This pocket watch belonged to my great-grandfather.
timepiece

A formal or slightly old-fashioned term for a device that measures time, including both watches and clocks. Often used to emphasize quality and craftsmanship.

  • His collection of antique timepieces is quite impressive.
  • This timepiece was handcrafted in Switzerland.
  • They gave him a beautifully engraved timepiece for his retirement.
timekeeper

May refer to a device that keeps track of time, but it is more commonly used to describe a person who monitors the passage of time during events or activities. It can also have connotations of someone who is always punctual.

  • The referee acted as the official timekeeper during the match.
  • As the project manager, she is an excellent timekeeper.
  • A good timekeeper ensures meetings stay on schedule.

Examples of usage

  • I always wear my wristwatch to keep track of time.
  • She bought a new wristwatch as a gift for her husband.

Translations

Translations of the word "wristwatch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 relógio de pulso

🇮🇳 कलाई घड़ी

🇩🇪 Armbanduhr

🇮🇩 jam tangan

🇺🇦 наручний годинник

🇵🇱 zegarek na rękę

🇯🇵 腕時計 (うでどけい)

🇫🇷 montre-bracelet

🇪🇸 reloj de pulsera

🇹🇷 kol saati

🇰🇷 손목시계

🇸🇦 ساعة يد

🇨🇿 náramkové hodinky

🇸🇰 náramkové hodinky

🇨🇳 手表

🇸🇮 ročna ura

🇮🇸 úr

🇰🇿 қол сағаты

🇬🇪 ხელის საათი

🇦🇿 qol saatı

🇲🇽 reloj de pulsera

Etymology

The wristwatch, as we know it today, was first created in the late 19th century. Before that, pocket watches were the norm, but they were not practical for soldiers in battle or for quickly checking the time. The wristwatch became popular during World War I, when soldiers found it more convenient to wear a watch on their wrist rather than fumble for a pocket watch. Since then, the wristwatch has become a fashion accessory and a symbol of style and status.

See also: wrist, wristband, wristbands, wristlet, wristlets.