The surname Vigilante is an Italian surname of occupational origin, derived from the Latin term vigilans, vigilantis, meaning "the one who watches", sentinel or guardian. In its origin, it was applied as a byname to persons in charge of tasks of surveillance, custody or control, especially in urban and rural contexts where these functions were fundamental for collective security.

Over time, this functional byname consolidated as a hereditary surname, giving rise to distinct lineages that do not necessarily share a common ancestor, but rather a same social function of origin.