Synonyms for

Vigil

Verb / ˈvɪdʒʌl / Another word for vigil — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A period of staying awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray.

Synonyms & similar words

watch watch observation monitoring surveillance wakefulness alertness attention circumspection caution care heedfulness observance watchfulness sentinel lookout guard patrol sentry

Synonyms by register

Formal

watch observation surveillance guard

Informal

staying up late night keeping watch

Literary

sentinel watchfulness wake

Antonyms

neglect indifference apathy complacency laziness inattention

Common collocations

  • keep vigil
  • hold vigil
  • death vigil
  • all-night vigil
  • wakeful vigil
  • solemn vigil
  • long vigil

Word family

noun vigil
verb vigil
adjective vigilant
adverb vigilantly

Usage note

A 'vigil' often implies a period of staying awake, especially to keep watch or pray. It carries a sense of solemnity or purpose.

Example sentences

  1. The soldiers kept a vigil all night at the border.
  2. I usually keep a vigil for my sick cat.
  3. The family kept a vigil on their loved one's deathbed.
  4. She stayed up all night for the vigil at the church.
  5. The police kept a vigil outside the building for any suspicious activity.

Quotes

  • Sleep is a weapon, they say, and I am armed and ready for battle. Vigil is my watchword.
  • The vigil of a mind disturbed is usually feverish and meaningless.
  • The night is a time of vigil, not a time of sleep.

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