vigilance

noun

vig·​i·​lance ˈvi-jə-lən(t)s How to pronounce vigilance (audio)
Synonyms of vigilance
: the quality or state of being vigilant

Synonyms of vigilance

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Examples of vigilance in a Sentence

eternal vigilance is the price of freedom
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Kim was credited as an essential member of George Washington’s Reactor Department for his unwavering vigilance. — Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 5 Aug. 2026 Therefore, borrowers should exercise constant vigilance and carefully review their statements. — Adam S. Minsky, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 This can lead to safety and operational concerns that require vigilance to ensure the protection of all meeting participants. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026 Still, today, all this vigilance covers less than 2 percent of America’s roughly 40,000 movie screens. — Lane Brown, Vulture, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for vigilance

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vigilance was in 1533

Phrases Containing vigilance

Browse Nearby Words

vigil
vigilance
vigilance committee
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Cite this Entry

“Vigilance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vigilance. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

vigilance

noun
vig·​i·​lance ˈvij-ə-lən(t)s How to pronounce vigilance (audio)
: the quality or state of being vigilant

Medical Definition

vigilance

noun
vig·​i·​lance ˈvij-ə-lən(t)s How to pronounce vigilance (audio)
: the quality or state of being wakeful and alert : degree of wakefulness or responsiveness to stimuli
vigilant
-lənt How to pronounce vigilance (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on vigilance

Nglish: Translation of vigilance for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vigilance

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