Vigil: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'vigil' when describing a period of keeping awake, especially to keep watch or pray, especially during the night.

• The villagers held a vigil for the missing child
• She kept a vigil by her mother's bedside

Use 'watch' for regular periods of monitoring or guarding, can also refer to a device used to tell time.

• The nurse kept watch over the patient throughout the night
• The captain asked for a change of watch at midnight

Use 'observation' in a more general or scientific sense, involving noticing or monitoring something carefully.

• The scientist made a keen observation about the animal's behavior
• He was placed under observation at the hospital

Use 'guard' when referring to a person or group of people who protect something or someone from harm, or the act of protecting.

• The guard stood at the entrance of the palace
• Always be on your guard when walking alone at night

Use 'sentinel' to describe a soldier or guard whose job is to keep watch, often used in a more literary or formal sense.

• The sentinel stood silently, watching for any signs of movement
• The old lighthouse served as a sentinel for ships navigating the rocky coast

Used when referring to a period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray. Often associated with a solemn or reflective gathering, sometimes during times of mourning or seeking hope.

• The community held a vigil for the missing child
• We gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember the victims of the disaster

Used when referring to an act or ceremony intended to honor and remember a significant event, person, or group. Often associated with historical events, anniversaries, or public recognitions.

• A commemoration was held to mark the 50th anniversary of the war's end
• They organized a special event in commemoration of his contributions to science

Used when referring to something, especially a structure or event, established to remind people of a person or event. Often seen as physical structures like monuments, or events like services, marking the memory of someone who has passed away.

• The new memorial in the park honors those who lost their lives in the tragedy
• A memorial service will be held next week for the late professor

Used to show respect or admiration, usually publicly, for a person, often someone who has died or made significant contributions. It can be an act, statement, or gift that expresses gratitude or honor.

• The documentary is a tribute to her remarkable life and career
• At the concert, musicians paid a moving tribute to the late composer