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

The age of the activists has drawn comments, even from government officials, that youth equates to naivety and ignorance. — ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

In the first season, he was met with resistance on all fronts to his unorthodox methods of coaching, his ignorance of the sport, his sheer Americanness. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2026

Buffett says diversification is protection against ignorance, and our Pershing Square Foundation was extremely diversified in its earlier years. — Fortune Editors, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026

The pro-Trump media’s attitude, though, borders on willful ignorance. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 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