vigil

noun

ˈvi-jəl How to pronounce vigil (audio)
Definition of vigilnext
as in watch
an act or period of watching for signs of activity, danger, or opportunity kept vigil at their ailing son's bedside the entire time he was in the hospital

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of vigil After the vigil, Mamdani dined at Palestinian restaurant Ayat on the Upper West Side. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 8 Oct. 2026 The public vigil for Noel will be held near the inclusive playground at Clyde Pittman Park that bears his name, according to the release. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Oct. 2026 Families of victims have held protests and vigils in Nepal, calling for search efforts to be improved. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 Other commemorations are being held across the country, including pro-Palestinian vigils that have been criticized by politicians and Jewish groups. — Charlene Gubash, NBC news, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vigil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vigil
  1. watch
  2. surveillance
Noun
  • The three biggest selling watches were the Hermès Clipper, followed by the Cartier Panthère and the Gucci Interchangeable Bezel.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The new Super Chronomat watch duo is just the latest collab from Breitling and Aston Martin.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of watch
Noun
  • Criminal charges against the ICE officer who drove the vehicle are being considered by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, after surveillance footage contradicted ICE’s claim that Parra Hernandez stepped in front of the vehicle.
    — Lekan Oyekanmi, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Witness statements and video surveillance showed Lindo drawing a black handgun during an argument involving several individuals, including a professional UFC fighter.
    — Ana Maria Soler, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of surveillance

Browse Nearby Words

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vigil
vigilance
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Cite this Entry

“Vigil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vigil. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on vigil

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vigil

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