ignorance

noun

ig·​no·​rance ˈig-n(ə-)rən(t)s 

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

Ignorance of the law is no excuse for violating it.

made decisions in ignorance of [=without knowing] the true situation

Synonyms of ignorance

• unfamiliarity
• innocence
• unawareness
• cluelessness
• nescience
• obliviousness

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

From top to bottom, this administration embodies the perversity, ignorance and belligerence of its leader. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2026

This action demonstrates the president’s monumental cruelty, total lack of empathy and compassion, pathological narcissism, boundless vengefulness, abysmal ignorance and glaring immaturity. —Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2026

That some of these offenders have attempted to wrap themselves in the protective cocoon of free speech reflects their ignorance of how First Amendment protections work in the real world. —Bob Ehrlich, Baltimore Sun, 21 Apr. 2026

Never before has the possibility of such ignorance, cruelty and destruction been possible in this form. —Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ignorance

• blissful ignorance
• ignorance is bliss
• 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