Vigil: meaning, definitions and examples

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vigil

[ˈvɪdʒəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

keep watch

The action of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray.

Synonyms

guard, observation, sentinel, watch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vigil	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
watch	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
observation	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
guard	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
sentinel	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

Examples of usage

He kept vigil by the bedside of his sick child.
She sat in vigil all night, waiting for news of the missing hiker.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

commemoration

A period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray, as a devotional exercise or to commemorate a special event.

Synonyms

commemoration, memorial, tribute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vigil	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
commemoration	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
memorial	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
tribute	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

Examples of usage

The candlelight vigil was held in memory of the victims of the tragedy.
We gathered for a vigil on the anniversary of his passing.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word comes from the Latin 'vigilare', meaning 'to stay awake'.
Originally, vigils were held in churches during the Middle Ages to pray or keep watch on certain nights.
In some cultures, vigils are held on the night before a special event, like a wedding, to prepare spiritually.

Cultural Practices

In many funerals, vigils are held to honor and remember the deceased, allowing friends to gather and share stories.
Some religious traditions designate specific nights for vigils, often involving rituals or prayers.
Historical events, like the passing of important leaders, have prompted nationwide vigils to show solidarity and respect.

Psychology

Staying awake during a vigil can enhance emotional bonding among participants, fostering a sense of community.
People often feel a mix of sadness and support during vigils, which can help in processing grief.
Engaging in collective remembrance can aid in healing and provide comfort in times of loss.

Literature

Vigils often appear in literature as settings for reflections on life, loss, and memory, adding depth to character development.
Many poems explore the concept of vigils as a time for introspection and emotional catharsis.
Famous writers have depicted vigils to illustrate societal issues, highlighting collective mourning or celebration.

Pop Culture

Vigils have been portrayed in movies and TV shows as powerful moments of unity and remembrance for characters.
Music often plays a role during vigils, with songs chosen to resonate with the themes of the occasion, creating lasting memories.
Social media has transformed how vigils are organized, often leading to global participation and support through live streams.

Translations

Translations of the word "vigil" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vigilância

🇮🇳 सतर्कता

🇩🇪 Wachsamkeit

🇮🇩 kewaspadaan

🇺🇦 пильність

🇵🇱 czujność

🇯🇵 警戒

🇫🇷 vigilance

🇪🇸 vigilancia

🇹🇷 tetikte olma

🇰🇷 경계

🇸🇦 اليقظة

🇨🇿 bdělost

🇸🇰 bdelosť

🇨🇳 警戒

🇸🇮 budnost

🇮🇸 vökulæti

🇰🇿 қырағылық

🇬🇪 სიფხიზლე

🇦🇿 ehtiyatlılıq

🇲🇽 vigilancia

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,995, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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19992 handiwork
19993 subjectively
19994 livid
19995 vigil
19996 lemonade
19997 permeate
19998 programing
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