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

The most dangerous blind spot in leadership is not ignorance. —Karl Moore, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026

Even Republicans, who usually feigned ignorance about the President’s social-media outbursts, were weighing in. —Jason Zengerle, New Yorker, 18 May 2026

What begins as ignorance plants the seed of disaster, escalating through human conflict into a tragedy of cosmic proportions. —Tommy McArdle, PEOPLE, 18 May 2026

Chinese officials were unsure what to make of Pete Hegseth’s presence — whether it was meant to convey a softer stance, a hardening one, or simply an ignorance of basic diplomatic protocol. —Los Angeles Times, 17 May 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