vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvi-jə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vigilant

Synonyms of vigilance

• watchfulness
• watch
• alertness

Examples of vigilance in a Sentence

eternal vigilance is the price of freedom

Recent Examples on the Web

Therefore, borrowers should exercise constant vigilance and carefully review their statements. — Adam S. Minsky, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

This can lead to safety and operational concerns that require vigilance to ensure the protection of all meeting participants. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026

Still, today, all this vigilance covers less than 2 percent of America’s roughly 40,000 movie screens. — Lane Brown, Vulture, 25 July 2026

Such preventive measures recognize the need for continuing vigilance and an upgrade of system safeguards. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing vigilance

• hyper-vigilance
• vigilance committee

Kids Definition

vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvij-ə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vigilant

Medical Definition

vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvij-ə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being wakeful and alert : degree of wakefulness or responsiveness to stimuli

vigilant

-lənt 

adjective