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

From a handbook distributed by the International Association of Exorcists, a group of more than two hundred Catholic priests that trains exorcists and raises awareness about demonic possession. —Rosa Lyster, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025

Fire officials say a little preparation and awareness can go a long way toward keeping celebrations safe for everyone. —Miami Herald Staff, Miami Herald, 30 Dec. 2025

The 45-year-old has remained in the public eye throughout 2025, continuing to speak out about breast cancer awareness while sharing glimpses of life as a mom. —Danielle Minnetian, FOXNews.com, 30 Dec. 2025

Following the firm’s annual athletic wear survey, analysts say On has rising brand awareness and will likely gain market share going forward. —Morgan Chittum,zev Fima, CNBC, 29 Dec. 2025

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