51Թ

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View synonyms for

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)

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

watchdog

/ ˈɒʃˌɒɡ /

noun

  1. 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

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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51Թ History and Origins

Origin of watchdog1

First recorded in 1600–10; watch + dog
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The UK's data watchdog said it has "continued to engage with Microsoft on this matter".

From

Details of the appointment were published on the website of Acoba, the watchdog that provides advice on jobs politicians accept after they leave government.

From

Jack Humphreville, who volunteers with Neighborhood Council Budget Advocates, a watchdog organization, accused council members of pushing the fee proposal through without sufficient time for the public to weigh in.

From

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has criticised how the Office for Budget Responsibility watchdog has analysed the impact of his benefit changes.

From

A spokesman for the watchdog said Mr Chilton had retired from the force, but added the inquiry would continue regardless.

From

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