watchdog

[ woch-dawg, -dog ]

noun

1. a dog kept to guard property.
2. a watchful guardian:

   a self-appointed watchdog of the public morals.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of a watchdog.
2. organized or functioning as a watchful guardian, especially against illegal or unethical conduct:

   a watchdog group in the legislature.

verb (used with object)

, watch·dogged, watch·dog·ging.

1. to watch carefully, especially so as to detect illegal or unethical conduct.

watchdog

/ ˈwɒtʃˌdɒɡ /

noun

1. a dog kept to guard property
2. 1. a person or group of persons that acts as a protector or guardian against inefficiency, illegal practices, etc
   2. ( as modifier )

      a watchdog committee

Word History and Origins

Origin of watchdog¹

First recorded in 1600–10; watch + dog

Example Sentences

Ofcom, the UK watchdog enforcing the law, has warned that companies will face punishments if they fail to keep children safe on their platforms.

From BBC

The energy watchdog Ofgem's price cap affects 29 million households in England, Wales and Scotland.

From BBC

The subject made headlines after the release of Oasis tickets in September prompted the government and the UK's competition watchdog to pledge they would look at the use of prices surging in line with demand.

From BBC

Parenting site Mumsnet says this rule has raised the price of formula rather than breastfeeding rates, while the competition watchdog has recommended the ban on price promotions be overturned.

From BBC

And there is also a growing issue with online abuse, reported by two-thirds of candidates who responded, and the watchdog is also calling for improved online protections.

From BBC

Related Words

• curator
• keeper
• overseer
• protector
• steward
• superintendent
• supervisor
• warden