Synonyms for

Vigilante

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

Definition

A person who takes the law into their own hands and tries to enforce it, often without legal authority.

Synonyms & similar words

vigilanceman avenger crusader defender guardian hero patrolman policeman protector watchdog watchman zealot champion enforcer justice-seeker lawman sheriff soldier upholder warrior peacekeeper

Synonyms by register

Formal

avenger enforcer retaliator

Informal

tough guy muscle vigil watchman

Literary

dark knight shadow warrior night rider

Antonyms

law-abiding citizen official enforcer peacekeeper policeman constable sheriff

Common collocations

  • vigilante justice
  • vigilante group
  • vigilante action
  • vigilante killer
  • vigilante behavior
  • vigilante squad
  • vigilante justice system

Word family

noun vigilantism
adjective vigilant

Usage note

A 'vigilante' is someone who takes the law into their own hands, often implying a morally ambiguous or even negative connotation, despite the perceived good intentions.

Example sentences

  1. The vigilante chased after the thief who stole his neighbor's bike.
  2. The town hired a group of vigilantes to protect their stores from looters.
  3. The vigilante thought he was doing the right thing by punishing the person who had hurt his friend.
  4. The police officer asked the vigilante to stand down and let them handle the situation.
  5. The vigilante felt like he had to take matters into his own hands because the police weren't doing enough.

Quotes

  • "A vigilante is just a man lost in the scramble for his own gratification. He can be destroyed or locked up. But if you make yourself more than just a man, if you devote yourself to an ideal and if they can't stop you, then you become something else entirely." - Batman
  • "A vigilante is someone who seeks to enforce the law, but they don't have a legal right to do so." - Mark Manson
  • "A vigilante is a person who is willing to use violence to enforce the law." - James Altucher

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