'watch' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wæccan,' where 'wæcce' meant 'wakefulness or vigil.'

'wæccan' transformed into the Middle English word 'wacchen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'watch.'

Initially, it meant 'to be awake or keep vigil,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to look at or observe attentively.'