ignorance

noun

ig·​no·​rance ˈig-n(ə-)rən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being ignorant : lack of knowledge, education, or awareness

Synonyms

• benightedness
• cluelessness
• incognizance
• innocence
• nescience
• obliviousness
• unawareness
• unfamiliarity

Examples of ignorance in a Sentence

His racist attitudes were born out of ignorance.

an appalling ignorance about other cultures

Recent Examples on the Web

Darrow asked Bryan about the age of the Earth, about biblical miracles, such as when Joshua commanded the sun to stand still, and many more questions that revealed not only Bryan’s ignorance of science but his ignorance of the Bible as well. —Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 14 Jan. 2025

Willful ignorance and wishful thinking had defined not just those 24 hours, but my life in Los Angeles. —David A. Goodman, New York Daily News, 13 Jan. 2025

Throughout Good Girl, Nila capitalizes on the ignorance of the white Germans around her to pass as anything but Afghan. —Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2025

This Better-Than List calls out those films and filmmakers who triumphed, defeating those who subjugated moviegoers to fear, bias, and ignorance. —Armond White, National Review, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ignorance

• blissful ignorance
• ignorance is bliss
• in ignorance of
• plead ignorance
• tools of ignorance

Kids Definition

ignorance

noun

ig·​no·​rance ˈig-nə-rən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being ignorant : lack of knowledge, education, or awareness