VIGILANCE Synonyms: 39 Similar and Opposite Words

vigilance

noun

ˈvi-jə-lən(t)s

Definition of vigilance

as in watchfulness

the state of being constantly attentive and responsive to signs of opportunity, activity, or danger eternal vigilance is the price of freedom

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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 vigilance The nonpartisan aim, Lyons acknowledged, will require vigilance at an institution that has strong political associations. — Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 Constant vigilance and self-editing are exhausting. — Carolyn O'Laughlin, CNN Money, 28 June 2026 Researchers emphasize the urgent need for vigilance among prescribers, especially as access to GLP-1s expands. — Dr. Samantha Aquino Calpo, ABC News, 24 June 2026 In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. — Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for vigilance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for vigilance

Noun

But the book’s ruminative watchfulness is unsuccessfully conjugated in this overly sedate play with music, which has the feel of a song cycle, though sung by the fine cast with gorgeous, lonely sorrow.

— Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 19 June 2026
Hong Kong icon Tony Leung has channeled brooding urban energy for the masterpieces of Wong Kar-Wai, balancing the debonair ennui of Marcello Mastroianni with the quiet watchfulness of Montgomery Clift.

— Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 8 May 2026

Definition of watchfulness

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

Your sense of smell is wired directly to areas of the brain that regulate pain and alertness, which is why certain fragrances can trigger headaches in sensitive people.

— Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 11 July 2026
Vibe Science says those biomarker changes align with behavioral change, such as falling asleep faster, feeling calmer or, in alertness sessions, sharper focus.

— Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026

Definition of alertness

Browse Nearby Words

vigil

vigilance

vigilant

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“Vigilance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vigilance. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of vigilance

noun

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