Vig"i*lance (?), n. [L. vigilantia:
cf. F. vigilance.] 1. The quality or state of
being vigilant; forbearance of sleep; wakefulness.
2. Watchfulness in respect of danger; care;
caution; circumspection. Cowper.
And flaming ministers to watch and tend
Their earthly charge; of these the vigilance
I dread.
Milton.
3. Guard; watch. [Obs.] "In at this gate
none pass the vigilance here placed." Milton.
Vigilance committee, a volunteer committee of
citizens for the oversight and protection of any interest, esp. one
organized for the summary suppression and punishment of crime, as when the
processes of law appear inadequate.