VIG'ILANCE, n. [L. vigilans. See Vigil.]
1. Forbearance of sleep; a state of being awake.2. Watchfulness; circumspection; attention of the mind in discovering and guarding against danger, or providing for safety. Vigilance is a virtue of prime importance in a general. The vigilance of the dog is no less remarkable than his fidelity.3. Guard; watch.In at this gate none pass the vigilance here plac'd.