vigilance

n. [ L. vigilantia: cf. F. vigilance. ] 1. The quality or state of being vigilant; forbearance of sleep; wakefulness. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Watchfulness in respect of danger; care; caution; circumspection. Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ]

And flaming ministers to watch and tend
Their earthly charge; of these the vigilance
I dread. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Guard; watch. [ Obs. ] “In at this gate none pass the vigilance here placed.” Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]