adjective
vigilant
VIJ-ih-luhnt/ˈvɪdʒɪlənt/
Watching carefully for possible danger or problems.
The lifeguard stays vigilant as children swim near the deep end.
Etymology
Latin vigilans described someone watchful or awake. Staying awake to keep watch provides the underlying image for being alert to possible danger.
In context
is a case study in how unchecked ambition and a lack of oversight can lead to catastrophic consequences it is a call to action for all stakeholders to be more Vigilant and Discerning
More examples
- Drivers must remain vigilant for deer on rural roads.
- Be vigilant about suspicious links in emails.
- Vigilant editors catch errors before a story goes to print.
Forms
vigilant · more vigilant · most vigilant
vigilance noun — Careful attention to possible danger or problems.
vigilantly adverb — With careful attention to possible danger.
Similar words
- watchful
- Emphasizes careful observation, often while guarding someone or something.
- alert
- Emphasizes readiness to notice and respond quickly to trouble.