naivety

noun

na·​ive·​ty nä-ˈē-və-tē How to pronounce naivety (audio)
-ˈēv-tē
nī-
variants or less commonly naïvety
plural naiveties
Synonyms of naivetynext
chiefly British
: naïveté
If he compromised himself, then it was because of his political ignorance and naivety.The Times Literary Supplement (London)

Examples of naivety in a Sentence

the contention that the royal family took advantage of the young Diana's naivety
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Perhaps that naivety is necessary when such a grueling, life-affecting period lies ahead, particularly at 24 years old. George Ramsay, New York Times, 7 May 2026 The reality of their relationship wasn't lost on the singer, despite her naivety about their ability to last. Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 31 Mar. 2026 Whatever your opinion, Theroux has an impressive back catalogue of documentaries worth watching, each one tackling a thorny topic with his signature faux naivety and awkward charm. Irenie Forshaw, TheWeek, 25 Mar. 2026 Stratton called for an immediate increase to $25 an hour — a position her opponents, who supported a gradual increase to $17 per hour, said reflected naivety and a lack of Washington experience. Dan Petrella, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for naivety

Word History

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of naivety was in 1708

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Cite this Entry

“Naivety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naivety. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

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