vigil

• Nom désignant une période de veille, en particulier pour observer, prier ou monter la garde ; peut aussi signifier une surveillance attentive pour protéger ou défendre.

A noun referring to a period of staying awake, especially to keep watch, pray, or observe; it can also denote a purposeful surveillance to guard or protect.

1. B2formal

   A period of staying awake, especially to keep watch or to pray.

   Veille

   • The nurse kept a vigil by the patient's bedside all night.
   • After a long vigil, the family finally received good news.
   • He maintained a sleepless vigil during the storm.

   Synonymeslookoutwakewakefulnesswatch

2. Religious observanceB2formal

   A devotional watch kept on the eve of a religious festival, often involving prayer or meditation.

   Veille religieuse

   • The church held a midnight vigil on Christmas Eve.
   • Many pilgrims participated in the Easter vigil.
   • The vigil included hymns and readings from scripture.

   Synonymeswakewatch

3. Purposeful surveillanceB2formal

   A purposeful watch kept to guard, protect, or observe a person or place.

   Veille vigilante

   • The security team maintained a constant vigil at the entrance.
   • Protesters held a vigil outside the government building.
   • The soldiers kept a silent vigil throughout the night.

   Synonymesguardlookoutmonitoringobservationsurveillancewatch