ˈ ̷ ̷mən noun
( plural watchmen )
Etymology: Middle English waccheman, from wacche watch + man
1. : one who keeps watch : guard , sentinel : as
a. : one formerly assigned to guard the streets of a city by night
b. : one who is employed to stand watch over or to patrol property for the purpose of protecting it against theft, fire, or other damage
c. : one who keeps guard at a particular place to warn persons of imminent danger
d. : a fireman on duty at a watch desk
2. : flag V 3b