awareness

noun

aware·​ness ə-ˈwer-nəs How to pronounce awareness (audio)
Synonyms of awareness
: 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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month is observed annually, every June, to promote brain and cognitive health initiatives, raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and preventative measures, and encourage research participation to learn about early detection. Wendy Coschignano-Ford, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 June 2026 Shocked to learn about Waukegan’s toxic legacy, Mendez said she felt compelled to raise awareness about her community’s environmental burdens. Christiana Freitag, Chicago Tribune, 13 June 2026 The event was one in a series of 20 such walks nationwide to raise money to support people with melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, and help fund research and raise awareness about it. Point Loma-Ob Monthly, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 June 2026 Consequences in the courtroom A lack of awareness about language diversity and linguistic needs can have serious consequences in the courtroom. Carol Rose Little, The Conversation, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for awareness

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of awareness was in 1839

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Cite this Entry

“Awareness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/awareness. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

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