Need another word for Vigilante? Use these synonyms of Vigilante from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
militia
watchdog
guardian
avenger
crusader
self-appointed guardian
lawman
enforcer
regulator
moderator
protector
defender
champion
hero
crime-fighter
vigil
guardian angel
self-defense
neighborhood watch
posse
ranger
marshal
sheriff
policeman
police officer
constable
peacekeeper
peace officer
enforcer
regulator
moderator
Meaning of Vigilante
The primary meaning of the word "Vigilante" refers to a person who takes the law into their own hands.
Definitions
- A member of a self-appointed group of citizens who undertake law enforcement in their community without legal authority, typically because the legal agencies are thought to be inadequate.
- A person who takes the law into their own hands, acting outside the formal justice system to punish or avenge a perceived wrong.
Etymology of Vigilante
The word "Vigilante" originates from the Spanish word "vigilante", meaning "watchful" or "vigilant", which is derived from the Latin word "vigilare", meaning "to watch" or "to be awake".
The term historically refers to a member of a vigilance committee, which was a group of citizens who organized to suppress and punish crime in areas where law enforcement was inadequate.
Example Uses
- The city has seen a rise in vigilante groups taking matters into their own hands to tackle crime.
- The vigilante was arrested for assaulting a suspected thief.
- The community has formed a vigilante group to patrol the neighborhood at night.