vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvi-jə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vigilant

Synonyms

• watchfulness
• watch
• alertness

Examples of vigilance in a Sentence

eternal vigilance is the price of freedom

Recent Examples on the Web

Effective oversight, coupled with ethical medical practice, could make this expansion a boon to public health without becoming a bonanza for bad actors—but history suggests that such vigilance must be constant, not assumed. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 12 Aug. 2025

This involves maintaining constant vigilance, cultivating mental resilience and being open to redefining your professional identity. —Philip Samson, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025

As the project moves into vertical construction (Phase II) and eventually into operations and maintenance (Phase III), stakeholder vigilance is crucial. —Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 4 Aug. 2025

Whether or not Wednesday’s quake was the one envisioned in Tatsuki’s manga, public vigilance against potential disaster will likely linger in Japan long after this week’s waves recede. —Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2025

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