What does VIGIL mean?

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Vigil is a noun.

Definitions

• A period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray.
• A purposeful watch maintained, especially at night, to guard, observe, or pray.

Pronunciations

• US: /ˈvɪdʒəl/
• UK: /ˈvɪdʒɪl/

Origin and Usage

Vigil comes from the Latin word "vigilia," which means "wakefulness." It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to a period of wakefulness, especially at night, for a specific purpose, such as guarding or praying. In modern usage, vigil is often used to refer to a period of mourning or remembrance, such as a candlelight vigil for a deceased person.

Synonyms

• Watch
• Observation
• Guard
• Wakefulness
• Alertness

Related Words

• Watch
• Guard
• Alarm
• Worry
• Peace

Example Sentences

• She kept a vigil by her sons bedside all night.
• The soldiers maintained a vigil throughout the night to guard the camp.
• The community held a candlelight vigil to remember the victims of the shooting.