ignorance

noun

ig·​no·​rance ˈig-n(ə-)rən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being ignorant : lack of knowledge, education, or awareness

Synonyms

• benightedness
• cluelessness
• incognizance
• innocence
• nescience
• obliviousness
• unawareness
• unfamiliarity

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

But know this: the silence of those responsible in our industry is no longer ignorance. —Lee Trink, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2025

With the show telling a cautionary tale about the perils of ignorance in the face of fascism, Peck cannot help but draw a direct parallel to our current political situation. —Stephen Daw, Billboard, 15 Apr. 2025

In total ignorance of the law of armed conflicts, Russia does not target military objects only, but any place in Ukraine. —Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025

During the campaign, Trump professed ignorance of Project 2025. —David Remnick, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ignorance

• blissful ignorance
• ignorance is bliss
• in ignorance of
• 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