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

In such a world, the greatest danger is not ignorance but intellectual stagnation. — Lintao "lt" Lu, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

His words are a sign of ignorance of the truth or denial of it. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 17 July 2026

For Hevalow, that perspective wasn’t born out of ignorance of the dangers — it was reinforced by surviving them. — Latif Love july 9, Kansas City Star, 9 July 2026

And ignorance — or, in the case of some people and/or bots on social media, denial that this is a thing at all — is not an excuse. — David Aldridge, New York Times, 4 July 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