unwatchful
Lacking careful attention
Not paying attention or keeping guard; failing to observe carefully.
Unwatchful suggests a lapse in vigilance where alertness would be expected: The unwatchful sentry didn't notice the approaching figures.
The word is rare, with watchful and its opposite unwary seeing far more use.
Not paying attention
- heedlessCareless of consequences
- obliviousLacking any awareness
- distractedUnable to concentrate
- absentmindedInattentive to immediate surroundings
preoccupied · unfocused · daydreaming · unmindful · unaware · scatterbrained · dreamy · spacey
Open to attack
- exposedOut in open
- defenselessWithout means to resist
- unprotectedWithout safeguard or shield
- off-guardNot anticipating trouble
unsuspecting · unwary · unvigilant · unsecured · open · unalert · unprepared · asleep
Inattentive, prone to mistakes
- neglectfulFailing to care properly
- remissNeglectful of duty
- laxInsufficiently firm or rigorous
- derelictAbandoned or neglectful
irresponsible · slipshod · sloppy · slack · haphazard · reckless · imprudent · incautious
unobservant
Not paying attention
- heedlessCareless of consequences
- obliviousLacking any awareness
- distractedUnable to concentrate
absentminded · preoccupied · unfocused · daydreaming · unmindful · unaware · scatterbrained · dreamy · spacey · forgetful
vulnerable
Open to attack
- exposedOut in open
- defenselessWithout means to resist
- unprotectedWithout safeguard or shield
off-guard · unsuspecting · unwary · unvigilant · unsecured · open · unalert · unprepared · asleep · trusting
careless
Inattentive, prone to mistakes
- neglectfulFailing to care properly
- remissNeglectful of duty
- laxInsufficiently firm or rigorous
derelict · irresponsible · slipshod · sloppy · slack · haphazard · reckless · imprudent · incautious · thoughtless