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

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. — Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 19 June 2026

Constant vigilance and self-editing are exhausting. — Carolyn O'Laughlin, CNN Money, 28 June 2026

Research on stress and cognitive load has shown that ambiguity activates many of the same neural pathways involved in threat detection and vigilance. — Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Researchers emphasize the urgent need for vigilance among prescribers, especially as access to GLP-1s expands. — Dr. Samantha Aquino Calpo, ABC News, 24 June 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