the danger of these self-appointed vigilantes is that they sometimes go after innocent people
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'vigilante.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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.
: a person who is not a police officer but who tries to catch and punish criminals
See words that rhyme with vigilante Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for vigilante Spanish Central: Translation of vigilante Nglish: Translation of vigilante for Spanish speakers
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