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

Though not necessarily a finding of causality, the study calls for more research and awareness into the common and routine use of melatonin by millions of individuals daily. —Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Wednesday's Child has helped find homes for hundreds of waiting children and continues to raise awareness about adoption from foster care. —CBS News, 21 Jan. 2026

Guard confidences well, uphold boundaries and understand that people can only act from their current level of awareness. —Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 21 Jan. 2026

The marketing stunts bring new customers to the cookie, and generates new awareness of the overall product line. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 21 Jan. 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