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

What’s the difference between ignorance and apathy? —Fiona Tapp, Parents, 5 Nov. 2024

Because so many celebrities presume to lecture us on behavior and politics, the game’s display of ignorance on both the professional and civilian side is stunning. —Armond White, National Review, 16 Oct. 2024

Dramatic irony — that pressure gradient of ignorance and knowledge that can be so pleasurable in fiction and so distressing in real life — is not just a theme of Recognizing the Stranger. —Andrea Long Chu, Vulture, 11 Oct. 2024

Tribalism forms connections based on ignorance and shared hatred. —Dan Berger, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

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