The Open Dictionary

vigilante

noun

UK/ˌvɪdʒ.ɪˈlæn.ti/
US/ˌvɪdʒ.əˈlæn.t̬i/

Definitions of vigilante noun

  1. Countable

    An individual who takes it upon themselves to prevent crime or punish criminals, often because they believe law enforcement is ineffective. Vigilantes typically operate in groups.

    • As the police failed to stop the criminal activity in the area, the local residents decided to form a vigilante group.

    • The movie tells the story of a vigilante fighting against corruption in the city.

    • The media often portrays them as heroes, but some consider them a threat to the law.