watch out

verb

watched out; watching out; watches out

intransitive verb

: to be vigilant or alert : be on the lookout
you'd better watch out
watch out for the tree!

Synonyms of watch out

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Examples of watch out in a Sentence

watch out for hazards in the road
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are a few signs of fading to watch out for, including the flowers beginning to close, losing their firmness, and developing a dry, papery texture. — The Spruce, 4 Aug. 2026 The Sooners will be a force in both the SEC and national picture, and if the rest of the team took offseason workouts as seriously as Mateer, the rest of the country better watch out. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Red flags travelers should watch out for include tour operators that offer enticingly low prices or require prepayment. — Jessica Puckett, Travel + Leisure, 31 July 2026 That means there are also red flags to watch out for that indicate something is a reproduction. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for watch out

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of watch out was in 1845

Rhymes for watch out

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Browse Nearby Words

watch oneself
watch out
watch over
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Watch out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/watch%20out. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

watch out

verb
: to be on the lookout
watch out for cars

More from Merriam-Webster on watch out

Nglish: Translation of watch out for Spanish Speakers

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