awareness

noun

aware·​ness ə-ˈwer-nəs How to pronounce awareness (audio)
: 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

Examples of awareness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The week, also referred to as Severe Weather Preparedness Week, occurs in states frequently affected by weather emergencies to increase awareness of the associated dangers. Madeline Nguyen, The Arizona Republic, 22 Mar. 2024 In addition to all the fun, this stacking toy helps kids work on color identification, counting, spatial awareness, problem-solving, and strengthening fine motor skills. Julie Evans, Parents, 22 Mar. 2024 The practice is intended to renew their awareness and gratitude for all that God has bestowed upon them, and to serve as a reminder of their religious obligation to help those less fortunate. Dave Skretta, The Christian Science Monitor, 21 Mar. 2024 Huncho announced the launch of the Spark Grants initiative on Wednesday (March 20), which will award 10 different organizations with $10,000 to help minimize gun violence and spread awareness around the ATL. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 20 Mar. 2024 Initiatives to increase awareness of PrEP and streamline the prescription process are essential. Alphonso David and Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, Essence, 20 Mar. 2024 Gardens can be spaces for conversation that might relate to problem solving, or sharing tips challenges and support, all of which can promote awareness of our local pollinators and food supply. Tamara Yakaboski, The Denver Post, 20 Mar. 2024 Companies like Coca-Cola have been making more environmentally packaging as consumer awareness and demand for action has intensified in recent years. Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 19 Mar. 2024 Since the 1988 Seoul Olympics, organizers have handed out contraceptives to spread awareness of HIV and AIDS, CBS Sports reported. Charlotte Phillipp, Peoplemag, 18 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'awareness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of awareness was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near awareness

Cite this Entry

“Awareness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/awareness. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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