vigilantism
|vig/i/lan/tism|
C1
/ˈvɪdʒɪləntɪzəm/
self-enforced justice
Etymology
Etymology Information
'vigilantism' originates from the Latin word 'vigilans,' meaning 'watchful' or 'awake.'
Historical Evolution
'vigilans' transformed into the French word 'vigilant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'vigilantism' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'being watchful or alert,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'taking the law into one's own hands.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of taking the law into one's own hands and attempting to enact justice according to one's own understanding of right and wrong.
Vigilantism often arises in communities where people feel the legal system has failed them.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45