unaware

1 of 2

adjective

un·​aware ˌən-ə-ˈwer 

: not aware : ignorant

unaware of the problem

unawarely adverb

unawareness noun

unaware

2 of 2

adverb

: unawares

Synonyms of unaware

Adjective

• oblivious
• ignorant

Adverb

• suddenly
• unexpectedly
• unawares

Examples of unaware in a Sentence

Adjective

she was unaware of the change in travel plans

Adverb

the predawn attack took the airmen completely unaware

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The child kept making her sounds, completely unaware, reaching up again for the edge of the mother’s scarf. — Ledio Cakaj, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2026

For those unaware, Scott studied creative writing under Toni Morrison at Princeton University. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 22 Aug. 2026

When large buyers extend payment terms, pressure passes down the supply chain, with smaller suppliers often unaware of their financial burden. — Andreas Schweitzer, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Earlier this year, the office of Mexico’s attorney general claimed officials were unaware of Jando’s true identity and role in the Zambada affair until recently. — Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1696, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1581, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unaware

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware

Kids Definition

unaware

1 of 2 adverb

un·​aware ˌən-ə-ˈwa(ə)r 

-ˈwe(ə)r

: unawares

unaware

2 of 2 adjective

: not aware : ignorant

unawareness noun