Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: WATCH
Definition: A watch is a group of sailors who work together on a ship for a certain amount of time. It can also mean the time period when these sailors are working. For example, a four-hour watch means that a group of sailors will work together for four hours before another group takes over. In the past, watch also meant to stand guard during the night.
watch, n. - A group of sailors who work together during a specific time period on a ship.
watch, v. - To stand guard during the night.
1. During a voyage, the crew of a ship is divided into two watches: the port watch and the starboard watch. Each watch works for a specific period of time before being relieved by the other watch.
2. The captain ordered the sailors to watch for any signs of danger during the night.
The first example illustrates the nautical meaning of "watch" as a division of a ship's crew. The crew is divided into two watches, each responsible for working for a specific period of time. This ensures that the ship is always manned and that the crew gets enough rest.
The second example illustrates the verb form of "watch" as standing guard during the night. The sailors are ordered to keep a lookout for any potential danger during their watch, ensuring the safety of the ship and its crew.