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

That ignorance has begun to erode. — Mark Guiducci, Vanity Fair, 23 June 2026

Not the innocence of ignorance. — Anthony Scaramucci, Fortune, 28 June 2026

Prejudice begins where voids of ignorance flourish. — Tazheen Nizam, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2026

Even so, Park says there was a lack of awareness from Mexicans before the influx of workers 10 years ago, sometimes verging on ignorance. — Tomás Hill López-Menchero, New York Times, 25 June 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