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
Mekishana Pierre, EW.com, 6 Aug. 2025
Jon Bernthal’s vigilante the Punisher and Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner, aka the Hulk, will also appear in the movie.
—Jordan Moreau, Variety, 2 Aug. 2025
Jon Bernthal is also on the call sheet to reprise his role of the vigilante known as the Punisher.
—Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 1 Aug. 2025
The bond vigilantes bidding up Chinese government yields aren’t always right.
—William Pesek, Forbes.com, 30 July 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 22 Aug. 2025.
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vigilante
noun
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