vigilante
noun
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The Meaning and Origin of Vigilante
Vigilante entered English in the 19th century, borrowed from the Spanish word of the same spelling which meant “watchman, guard” in that language. The Spanish word can be traced back to the Latin vigilare, meaning “to keep awake.” The earliest use of the word in English was to refer to a member of a vigilance committee, a committee organized to suppress and punish crime summarily, as when the processes of law appear inadequate. The word may often be found in an attributive role, as in the phrases “vigilante justice,” or “vigilante group.” In this slightly broadened sense it carries the suggestion of the enforcement of laws without regard to due process or the general rule of law.
Examples of vigilante in a Sentence
Vidushi Mishti Sharma, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025
His past includes stints as a radio host and beret-wearing Guardian Angels anti-crime vigilante group founder.
—Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 23 Oct. 2025
In the weeks after, decks of cards spotlighting other CEOs and executives circulated on social media, which heightened the threat climate as did Mangione’s public reception as quasi vigilante, Kucera said.
—Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2025
In this Appetite…, the fringe-living Axl is best described as a cyborg-vigilante.
—Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vigilante
Cite this Entry
“Vigilante.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vigilante. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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vigilante
noun
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