What does wristwatch mean?
A wristwatch is a compact timekeeping device designed to be worn around the wrist. It may use analog hands, a digital display, or both, and it commonly includes features such as alarms, timers, calendars, or Bluetooth connectivity. The word is widely used in formal and informal English, although “watch” is often the shorter everyday alternative when the wrist location is already clear. Historically, portable timepieces were commonly carried as pocket watches, while the wristwatch became established as a practical form of personal technology. Today, the term covers traditional mechanical watches, electronic watches, smartwatches, and many inexpensive models intended mainly to tell the time. Although the expression is now somewhat more specific than the broader word “watch,” it remains familiar and useful because it identifies both the object and the place where it is worn.
nounA wristwatch is a clock or other timekeeping device designed to be worn on the wrist. It may show the time with hands, a digital display, or a combination of both.
- A watch, clock, or similar timekeeping device designed to be worn around the wrist.
"He glanced at his wristwatch as the meeting began."
"She wore a slim silver wristwatch to the ceremony."
"The museum display included an early mechanical wristwatch."
The standard plural is formed by changing “-ch” to “-ches” and adding “-es.”
"The shop sells repaired wristwatches and replacement straps."
Before wristwatches became commonplace, people carried pocket watches; now the timepiece can literally travel on the body.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does wristwatch come from?
“Wristwatch” is an English compound formed from “wrist” and “watch.” “Wrist” derives from Old English “wrist,” a Germanic word for the joint between the hand and forearm, while “watch” descends from Old English “wæccan,” associated with observing or keeping watch. The compound developed alongside the practical use of clocks and watches fitted to the wrist, after an era when many personal timepieces were carried as pocket watches.
Related word forms
How wristwatch is actually used
The word is neutral in register and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. British and American pronunciations differ, with /wɒtʃ/ common in British English and /wɑːtʃ/ common in American English.
Easily confused with wristwatch
A watch may be worn on the wrist, but the term can also refer to pocket watches, wall clocks, and other timepieces; a wristwatch specifically denotes a watch worn on the wrist.