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

• advertence
• advertency
• attention
• cognizance
• consciousness
• ear
• eye
• heed
• knowledge
• mindfulness
• note
• notice
• observance
• observation

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

The buzzy week is an annual celebration raising awareness about the critical role pollinators like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other insects play in our ecosystems, and the urgent need to protect them. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2025

Lewis Pugh, a long distance swimmer from England, braved the island's chilly waters in just a pair of speedos, a swim cap and goggles in a bid to raise awareness. —N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 21 June 2025

Many with profound autism who also have intellectual disabilities have limited safety awareness and need constant care by an adult. —Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 20 June 2025

By blending art, activism, and philanthropy, these artists not only elevate awareness but also motivate communities to unite in finding solutions. —Sigal Ratner-Arias, Billboard, 20 June 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