Definition

A period of time during the night when someone is on duty, typically from midnight to 8 a.m.

Example

The sailors took turns standing the midwatch to ensure the ship was safe during the night.

Conversation

Did you have to do the midwatch last night?

Yeah, it was pretty quiet, but I managed to stay awake.

I always find it tough to keep my eyes open during the midwatch.

Same here! Coffee definitely helps, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Midwatch → It is formed from "mid" (from Old English "mid", meaning middle) and "watch" (from Old English "wæccan", meaning to be awake or to watch). The term "midwatch" refers to the middle period of a watch, particularly in naval contexts, when sailors are on duty during the night.

Memory Tip

Think of being in the 'middle' ('mid') of a 'watch' — that's why midwatch refers to the middle period of duty.

Visually Confused Words