Vigilantly - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

manner of behavior

Vigilantly refers to the action of being watchful, alert, and attentive to potential dangers or problems. It implies a state of constant surveillance to ensure safety or prevent issues. This term is often used in contexts where caution and awareness are paramount, such as in security or safety protocols. When one acts vigilantly, they are not only observant but also ready to respond to any signs of trouble or risk.

Synonyms

alertly, attentively, carefully, watchfully.

Examples of usage

The lifeguard watched vigilantly over the swimmers.
She monitored the situation vigilantly, ready to intervene if necessary.
The guards patrolled the area vigilantly during the night.
They worked vigilantly to complete the project ahead of the deadline.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In Shakespearean plays, characters often act vigilantly to serve their roles, suggesting wisdom and caution.
The theme of vigilance is prevalent in detective novels where protagonists must remain alert to solve mysteries.
Classic literature often portrays vigilantly as a noble quality, highlighting moral strength in characters facing danger.

Psychology

Vigilance in psychology refers to heightened attention paid to potential threats in one’s environment.
Studies suggest that being vigilant can improve one’s ability to react to sudden events, affecting decision-making.
Excessive vigilance, known as hypervigilance, may be linked to anxiety and stress disorders.

Society

Communities often remain vigilant in disaster preparedness to prevent loss and enhance safety.
Vigilance can foster a sense of responsibility in protecting others, as seen in neighborhood watch programs.
It has historical significance in social movements where active observations helped prevent injustices.

Technology

In cybersecurity, operating vigilantly means constantly monitoring systems to prevent hacks and breaches.
Smart home devices are designed to make users vigilant by alerting them to unusual activities.
Artificial intelligence applications use algorithms to analyze patterns and promote vigilant responses to anomalies.

Origin of 'vigilantly'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'vigilans', meaning 'watchful' or 'alert'.
It is derived from 'vigilare', which translates to 'to keep awake or to be watchful'.
The root 'vigil' has been used since the Middle Ages in various languages to convey alertness.

The word 'vigilantly' derives from the Latin word 'vigilans', which means 'awake' or 'watchful', and comes from 'vigil', meaning 'alert' or 'sleepless'. Its root, 'vigil', is associated with a state of being watchful especially at night or for a prolonged period. In the English language, 'vigilant' has been used since the early 17th century to describe someone who is watchful and alert to potential dangers, which then led to the adverb form 'vigilantly'. Over the years, the context of its usage has expanded from general observation to specific applications in security, law enforcement, and health and safety fields. Today, being 'vigilant' is crucial in various aspects of life, including driving, workplace safety, and parenting, emphasizing the importance of being aware and responsive to one's environment.

Vigilantly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations