ignorance

American  

[ig-ner-uhns] / ˈɪg nər əns /

noun

1. the state or fact of being ignorant; lack of knowledge, learning, information, etc.

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ignorance British  

/ ˈɪɡnərəns /

noun

1. lack of knowledge, information, or education; the state of being ignorant

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Other Word Forms

• self-ignorance noun

Etymology

Origin of ignorance

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English word from Latin word ignōrantia. See ignore, -ance

Compare meaning

How does ignorance compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• ignorance vs. stupidity

Example Sentences

This combination of deep insight and total ignorance has proved irresistible for many interested in the ancient world.

From The Wall Street Journal

My total ignorance of military maneuvers in no way detracts from my enjoyment and in some ways enhances it.

From The Wall Street Journal

“It is high time . . . that we take our ignorance more seriously,” Hayek memorably observed.

From The Wall Street Journal

Another cause is the evanescence of serious history curricula in schools, and an ignorance of the honor in service.

From The Wall Street Journal

Elen said it "doesn't really matter" whether the comments were made out of malice or ignorance.

From BBC

Related Words

• benightedness
• blindness
• nescience
• unawareness