ignorance

noun

ig·​no·​rance ˈig-n(ə-)rən(t)s 

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

Ignorance of the law is no excuse for violating it.

made decisions in ignorance of [=without knowing] the true situation

Synonyms of ignorance

• unfamiliarity
• innocence
• unawareness
• cluelessness
• nescience
• obliviousness

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

When racist incidents happen, colleges sometimes respond with educational programs that ask students of color to fix white ignorance for free. —Ingrid A. Nelson, The Conversation, 29 May 2026

Why the selective ignorance about an Earth-rotation moment? —Jamie Carter, Space.com, 28 May 2026

The combined disgust, discomfort, ignorance, and fascination with our Indigeneity that unsettled my aunties and fascinated my cousins made more sense to me. —Literary Hub, 28 May 2026

But Renner’s trip down the rabbit hole of ignorance didn’t stop with his outdated reliability claims. —David Jenkins, Sun Sentinel, 26 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ignorance

• blissful ignorance
• ignorance is bliss
• 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