vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvi-jə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vigilant

Synonyms

• alert
• alertness
• attentiveness
• qui vive
• red alert
• watch
• watchfulness

Examples of vigilance in a Sentence

eternal vigilance is the price of freedom

Recent Examples on the Web

City officials say the event, where many participants drink alcohol, is chaotic, dangerous and typically requires many rescues and extreme vigilance by police and rangers. —David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Feb. 2025

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. —Bay Area Weather Report, The Mercury News, 14 Feb. 2025

While no injuries have been reported, the recall highlights the importance of vigilance in food production and consumer awareness. —Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025

And will audiences also rise to the challenge of evaluating information in a moderator-less landscape that demands a constant vigilance of skepticism and discernment? —Cherie Brooke Luo, Forbes, 23 Jan. 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