Synonyms of vigils

vigils

noun

plural of vigil

as in watches

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

• watches
• lookouts
• surveillances
• observations
• observances
• inspections
• supervisions
• scrutinies

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vigils

In the days after 9/11, people around the world held vigils in solidarity with the United States. — Michael E. Neagle, Hartford Courant, 8 Sep. 2026

Candlelight vigils were held in several places in Kathmandu in memory of the people who lost their lives during the flooding. — ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026

Across Indiana this weekend, there were dozens of vigils and other demonstrations aimed at protesting ICE's detention of immigrants at Miami Correctional Facility. — Hayleigh Colombo, IndyStar, 31 Aug. 2026

Their parents have likely taken them for vigils at other congregants’ houses. — Audrey Dutton, ProPublica, 25 Aug. 2026

Hostage families and their supporters gathered at the square for mass rallies, weekly Shabbat gatherings, vigils and public events demanding the release of those held in Gaza. — Deborah Danan, Sun Sentinel, 17 Aug. 2026

The group has hosted and co-organized over eight protests, marches, rallies and vigils — some attended by hundreds. — Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 31 July 2026

Members are also holding weekly evening vigils at the parish to draw attention to this latest Eastside environmental catastrophe. — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 25 July 2026

The vigils — held at the corner of 7th Street and Capitol Mall — typically involved music, singing and prayers from members of different faiths, including Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Buddhist. — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 22 July 2026