awareness

noun

aware·​ness ə-ˈwer-nəs 

: the quality or state of being aware : knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists

promoting a heightened awareness of the problem

seemed to have only a slight awareness of what was going on

an acute awareness of subtle differences

They hope to raise awareness of endangered species, encouraging donations and attracting tourists to the region to support conservation efforts.

—New Scientist

The alternative press played a particularly important role in raising political awareness and facilitating mobilization against the regime in South Africa …

—Larry Diamond

Synonyms of awareness

• attention
• mindfulness
• consciousness
• knowledge

Examples of awareness in a Sentence

while strolling in the big city, maintain an awareness of what's going on around you

Recent Examples on the Web

Hernández went 0-for-2 with a sacrifice fly, demonstrated zone awareness while drawing two walks, and made the play of the night, ranging far into foul ground after gloving a ground ball that threaded the chalk line. — Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 26 July 2026

At Bellflower Middle and High School, Principal Jessica Cummings said a Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week and parent workshops focused on fostering healthy relationships increased awareness on her campus. — Los Angeles Times, 26 July 2026

The goal of the expedition is to raise money and awareness for his nonprofit, which is dedicated to Arctic climate research, marine science and exploration. — Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 26 July 2026

Research by British alcohol awareness charity Drinkaware shows an increasing number are embracing low and no-alcohol drinks. — Mustafa Qadri, CNN Money, 25 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing awareness

• hyper-awareness
• self-awareness

Rhymes for awareness

• unawareness
• bareness
• fairness
• squareness
• unfairness