CLOCK WATCHER Meaning and
Definition
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A clock watcher is an individual who strictly adheres to the time allotted for work and constantly monitors the clock to ensure they finish their tasks exactly at the designated time. This term is commonly used to describe an employee who is overly conscious about the duration of their working hours, focusing more on counting minutes than on the actual job at hand.
Clock watchers are often fixated on a rigid concept of time, considering the clock to have more control over their activities than their own initiative. They tend to prioritize punctuality while disregarding the quality or completion of their work. Their attention becomes divided between completing their duties efficiently and anxiously tracking the minutes remaining until they can leave.
The behavior of clock watchers can negatively impact workplace productivity and morale. Their obsession with adhering to the clock's schedule may lead to rushed or incomplete work, compromising the overall quality. Additionally, colleagues may perceive them as disengaged or uncommitted, as they prioritize meeting the end-of-day deadline rather than investing time and effort into their tasks.
In a broader context, a clock watcher can also describe someone who constantly and anxiously monitors time in their personal life, allowing it to dictate their actions and experiences, rather than engaging fully in the present moment.
Common Misspellings for CLOCK WATCHER
- xlock watcher
- vlock watcher
- flock watcher
- dlock watcher
- ckock watcher
- cpock watcher
- coock watcher
- click watcher
- clkck watcher
- cllck watcher
- clpck watcher
- cl0ck watcher
- cl9ck watcher
- cloxk watcher
- clovk watcher
- clofk watcher
- clodk watcher
- clocj watcher
- clocm watcher
- clockwatcher
Etymology of CLOCK WATCHER
The word "clock watcher" dates back to the early 20th century and is derived from the combination of "clock" and "watcher".
"Clock" refers to a device used for measuring and indicating time, while "watcher" refers to a person who observes or looks out for something.
As office and factory work became more time-oriented and structured during the industrial revolution, employees were expected to work a specific number of hours and adhere to strict schedules. Those who consistently looked at the clock to track the time until their shift ended, or who were perceived as constantly checking the clock to avoid working, were labeled as "clock watchers".
The term "clock watcher" originated as a mildly derogatory term used to describe employees who were perceived as being more concerned with the hours they had left until quitting time instead of focused on their work. It implies a lack of dedication or enthusiasm for the job.
Idioms with the word CLOCK WATCHER
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clock watcher
A person who is constantly checking the time and counting down the minutes until they can leave work or end a specific task.
Similar spelling words for CLOCK WATCHER
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