\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.