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 The May attack prompted a candlelight vigil, where students gathered to support the survivor and voice concerns about campus safety. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 After the incident, a candlelight prayer vigil was held for Quarles and her two kids at the Parsons Regional Community Park in Parsons, WBBJ reported. — Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 The backdrop for protests, vigils, celebrations and stunning sunrise photos. — ABC News, 27 June 2026 People attend a candlelight vigil for Haitians living in the US under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) immigration program in Miami, Florida on February 3, 2026. — Tania Francois, CBS News, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for vigil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vigil
  1. watch
  2. surveillance
Noun
  • Over the next two decades, records are few, most of them noting criminal convictions for fighting in bars, stealing a watch, deserting a whaling ship, and beating his wife.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 July 2026
  • For a neighborhood-style atmosphere semifinal watch party, The Brightside is a small bar that really packs a punch.
    — Amber Love Bond, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026
Definition of watch
Noun
  • Robinson’s parents had confronted him after authorities released a surveillance photo of the suspect and details about the rifle, authorities have said.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 July 2026
  • Better detection and rising clinician awareness probably explain much of the jump, though surveillance data alone cannot rule out changes in incidence or exposure.
    — John Drake, Forbes.com, 4 July 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 17 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on vigil

Nglish: Translation of vigil for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vigil

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