vigilance

[ vij-uh-luhns ]

noun

1. state or quality of being vigilant; watchfulness:

   Vigilance is required in the event of treachery.

   Synonyms: heedfulness, alertness, care, concern, attention

2. Pathology. insomnia.

vigilance

/ ˈvɪdʒɪləns /

noun

1. the fact, quality, or condition of being vigilant
2. the abnormal state or condition of being unable to sleep

Other Words From

• hy·per·vig·i·lance noun
• non·vig·i·lance noun
• pre·vig·i·lance noun
• su·per·vig·i·lance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of vigilance¹

First recorded in 1560–70; alteration ( -ance for -ancy ) of obsolete vigilancy, from Latin vigilantia; vigilant, -ancy

Example Sentences

And my fear, which is admittedly impossible to quantify, is that the exhaustion across the political spectrum with this never-ending carnival and the resulting need for perpetual vigilance is palpable, dangerous, and ready to be exploited by Republicans.

From Slate

Election experts argue that a delay in knowing the result, in part because of the patchwork of rules that dictate how votes are counted, notably in battleground states, is proof of ballot-counters’ vigilance about accurately tabulating the vote.

From Los Angeles Times

The key, she said, lies in trying to balance vigilance with a pragmatic approach.

From Salon

Absent extraordinary vigilance and in many cases notwithstanding it, the election could turn on freakish events or even the fruits of a probably criminal scheme.

From Los Angeles Times

Quality still makes a luxury purchase worth it for many, but with so much shopping taking place online, it takes more vigilance to discern a well-made garment.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• alertness
• caution
• diligence
• surveillance