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

After feigning ignorance and then glowering at Belinda from across the resort, Greg boldly invites her to his home and to speak privately about their previous acquaintance. —Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 30 Mar. 2025

Elsewhere in the interview, Peck discussed the timely politics of Cabaret, noting that the show’s themes surrounding the rise of fascism amid societal ignorance ring eerily true today. —Stephen Daw, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2025

Contrary to Camp Cuomo’s feigned ignorance, the absence of criminal charges in no way suggests that Cuomo is innocent. —Erica Vladimer, New York Daily News, 8 Mar. 2025

Above all, they are beset by their own ignorance and poor choices. —Jessica Winter, The New Yorker, 8 Mar. 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