vaɪˈdʒɪl

Definitions

1. noun

A period of time spent waiting or keeping watch, especially for someone who is ill or dying.

“She kept a vigil by her mother’s bedside throughout the night.”

2. noun

A period of time spent in prayer or meditation, especially on the anniversary of a person’s death.

“The community gathered for a vigil to commemorate the anniversary of the church’s founding.”

3. noun

A person who keeps watch or waits, especially for someone who is ill or dying.

“Two vigils sat by the patient’s side, keeping him company throughout the day.”

4. verb

To keep watch or wait, especially for someone who is ill or dying.

“She will vigil by her mother’s bedside until the doctor returns.”

5. verb

To observe or commemorate a period of time, especially the anniversary of a person’s death.

“The community will vigil to commemorate the anniversary of the church’s founding.”