WordLens

vigil

1 of 1noun
/ˈvɪdʒəl/
Forms:vigils
1

a period of watchfulness, often maintained to protect, monitor, or await something significant

  • The soldiers kept a vigil through the night at the border.
  • A vigil was maintained at the patient's bedside.
  • The community organized a candlelight vigil for the missing child.
  • Security teams conducted a vigil during the summit.
  • She stood vigil, waiting for news from the rescue team.
Synonyms:
2

a spiritual observance involving staying awake, praying, or meditating, often held before a holy day or event

C2
  • They participated in the Easter vigil at midnight.
  • The monks held a vigil before the feast of Saint Benedict.
  • A prayer vigil was observed on Christmas Eve.
  • The faithful gathered for an all-night vigil in the chapel.
  • The vigil marked the beginning of the holy festival.
Synonyms:
3

a peaceful and stationary public demonstration held in support of a particular cause, typically marked by silence and the absence of speeches or active protest

  • A vigil formed at the border, calling attention to the humanitarian crisis without confrontation.
  • Activists held a vigil in front of the embassy to protest the detention of journalists.
  • A vigil was organized in the town square to support climate justice.
  • Students held a peaceful vigil on campus to remember those lost in the recent tragedy.
  • The group maintained a vigil outside the hospital, hoping for news of the injured.