What does vigilantism mean Meaning and Definition
What does vigilantism mean
Pronunciation
/vɪˈdʒɪləntɪzəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of taking law enforcement into one’s own hands, often in response to a perceived lack of justice or ineffective law enforcement.
Examples
- The community took matters into their own hands, engaging in vigilantism to combat rising crime.
- Vigilantism has been on the rise in areas where trust in law enforcement is low.
Synonyms
- Taking the law into one’s own hands
- Private justice
Antonyms
- Law enforcement
- Due process
Additional Information
Vigilantism can take many forms, from neighborhood watch groups to individual acts of violence. While it may be motivated by a desire for justice, it can often lead to further violence and erosion of trust in institutions.
Vigilantism has a long and complex history, with examples ranging from medieval Europe to modern-day urban centers. It is often associated with feelings of frustration and powerlessness in the face of perceived injustice.
Etymology
The term “vigilantism” comes from the Latin “vigilare,” meaning “to watch” or “to be vigilant.”
Usage Notes
Vigilantism is often used to describe extra-legal actions taken in response to perceived injustice, but it can also refer to more formalized systems of community justice.
Cultural References
Vigilantism has been explored in popular culture through films like “The Dark Knight” and “The Punisher,” as well as in literature and music.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Take the law into one’s own hands”
- “Be one’s own judge, jury, and executioner”
Related Words or Phrases
- Vigilante
- Lawlessness
Collocations
- Vigilantism and justice
- Vigilantism and crime
Frequency of Use
Vigilantism is a relatively uncommon term, but it has seen increased use in recent years in the context of rising crime and community policing.
Common Misspellings
- Vigilantysm
- Vigilantismm