vigil
- A period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray. nounThe family held a vigil at the hospital, hoping for good news.During the vigil, they lit candles and sang hymns.
- An event or period of time when a person or group stays in a place and quietly waits, prays, etc., especially at night. nounThe community organized a candlelight vigil in memory of the victims.They stood vigil outside the courthouse, awaiting the verdict.