View synonyms for

watchdog

[ woch-dawg, -dog ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a dog kept to guard property.
a watchful guardian:
a self-appointed watchdog of the public morals.

adjective

of, relating to, or characteristic of a watchdog.
organized or functioning as a watchful guardian, especially against illegal or unethical conduct:
a watchdog group in the legislature.

verb (used with object)

watchdogged, watchdogging.

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

watchdog

/ ˈ��ɒ��ʃˌ��ɒɡ /

noun

a dog kept to guard property
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

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Word History and Origins

Origin of watchdog¹

First recorded in 1600–10; watch + dog

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

An investigation by the watchdog said a call handler rang back the mobile number after the caller hung up.

From

John Gummer, now Lord Deben, was an environment minister under Margaret Thatcher and chaired the government's watchdog on climate change for a decade.

From

But the Trump administration has been highly critical of the global energy watchdog for its promotion of clean energy and forecasting declines in oil and gas.

From

Lutnick and other Trump officials have not responded to specific Senate complaints or watchdog inquiries about the status of these divestments.

From

Social media platforms and websites will be legally required to protect children from accessing harmful content online or risk facing fines, the communications watchdog has said.

From

Related Words

Watch Committee watcher

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