Definition of "watch-officer" [watch-officer]

• The officer in charge of the deck of a ship, who takes his turn with others in standing watches, during which time, subject to the authority of the commanding officer, he has charge of the ship. Also called officer of the watch. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

• "The watch-officer and the commander stand by the periscope, watching the approaching craft."
• "The eyes of the watch-officer are glued to the periscope."
• "The first watch-officer, having finished his breakfast and a morning watch, was just then taking a little nap on the port ward-room transom with his clothes and sea-boots still on."