vigia

American  

[vi-jee-uh, vee-hee-ah] / vɪˈdʒi ə, viˈhi ɑ /

noun

plural

vigias

1. a navigational hazard whose existence or position is uncertain.

---

vigia British  

/ ˈvɪdʒɪə /

noun

1. nautical a navigational hazard marked on a chart although its existence and nature has not been confirmed

---

Etymology

Origin of vigia

First recorded in 1865–70; from Spanish vigía “lookout, reef,” probably from Portuguese vigia, noun derivative of vigiar “to watch,” from Latin vigilāre; see vigilant

Example Sentences

Even though the vigia had been silenced, sentries would doubtless be posted around the fort.

From Caribbee by Hoover, Thomas

The attack plan called for an advance party to proceed overland from the rear and surprise the vigia on the hill overlooking the bay, using a map prepared by their Spanish pilot, Armando Vargas.

From Caribbee by Hoover, Thomas

They had gone ashore two hours before midnight, giving them four hours to secure the vigia before the attack was launched.

From Caribbee by Hoover, Thomas

If any strange ship entered the bay, Caguaya would be signaled from here at the vigia, using two large bells donated by the Church, and the fort's cannon would be readied as a precaution.

From Caribbee by Hoover, Thomas

I don't know what a vigia is, Mr. Pyecroft.

From Traffics and Discoveries by Kipling, Rudyard