Vigilante
Definition 1 of 1
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Extra-legal Activity
Vigilante relates to actions taken outside legal boundaries, often due to a lack of trust in law enforcement. The townspeople formed a vigilante group to handle the crime wave.
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Negative Connotation
Although trying to deliver justice, 'vigilante' often has a negative connotation suggesting recklessness or illegality. The man's vigilante efforts to catch the vandal landed him in trouble with the law.
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Pop Culture Hero
In films and comics, a vigilante often has a heroic image, fighting crime when institutions fail. The character dressed as a bat is a vigilante fighting against the corruption in his city.