vigilant

/ˈvɪdʒələnt/ adj.

Origin

From Latin vigilans ("watchful"), from vigilare ("to watch")

Meanings

1. Keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties
2. Alert and attentive; actively observant
3. Being cautious and aware of potential problems or dangers

Example Sentences

• Parents must remain vigilant about their children's online activities.
• The security guard was vigilant throughout his night shift.
• We need to be vigilant in protecting our personal information from cybercriminals.

Related Words

• Noun: vigilance
• Adverb: vigilantly
• Synonyms: watchful, alert, observant, attentive, cautious, wary
• Antonyms: careless, inattentive, negligent

Memory Tricks

1. Think "VIG(or) + I + LANT": Someone with vigor (energy) who says "I" want to be alert
2. Break it down: "VIGIL" (watch) + "ANT" - like an ant that's always alert and working
3. Picture a vigilante superhero who must stay vigilant to fight crime

Usage Notes

• Often used in security and safety contexts
• Frequently paired with words like "remain," "stay," or "be"
• Can be used to describe both people and animals' state of alertness