vigilant
UK: ˈvɪdʒɪlənt | US: ˈvɪdʒələnt
adj. watchful and alert to potential danger or difficulties
adj. characterized by careful attention or caution
vigil<watch> + ant<adjective suffix>
- vigil: From Latin vigil (awake, watchful), related to vigilia (wakefulness). The root implies sustained attention, often during nighttime.
- ant: A suffix forming adjectives, derived from Latin -antem (present participle ending), indicating a state or quality (e.g., "observant," "defiant").
Etymology Origin:
"Vigilant" traces back to Latin vigilare (to stay awake), reflecting the idea of guarding or monitoring. The suffix -ant transforms the verb into an adjective, emphasizing a persistent state of alertness. Historically, it evokes imagery of night watches or sentinels, merging physical and metaphorical vigilance.
The security guard remained vigilant throughout the night.
A vigilant teacher noticed the student’s struggling and offered help.
Investors must stay vigilant to market fluctuations.
Her vigilant eye caught the error in the contract.
Wildlife photographers need to be vigilant to capture rare moments.