awareness

American  

[uh-wair-nis] / əˈwɛər nɪs /

noun

1. the state or condition of being aware; having knowledge; consciousness.

   The object of the information drive is to raise awareness of what spreads HIV/AIDS.

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Other Word Forms

• hyperawareness noun
• overawareness noun
• self-awareness noun

Etymology

Origin of awareness

aware + -ness

Explanation

Awareness is the state of knowing something, such as the awareness that the sun comes up every morning. The adjective aware gets turned into a noun when the suffix -ness is added, so awareness is the state of being aware, or having knowledge of something. Its roots are Germanic, and come from the Old English wær meaning "wary, cautious." Awareness can be something you notice, want to tell others about, or already know. You could "raise awareness" of a cause, like fighting breast cancer. Yet, your awareness of the baby sleeping next door might prevent you from having band practice in the garage. Smart move.

Example Sentences

And there’s a sense of connection and awareness and being present.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

“But the social aspect has to come with some innate awareness of what you’re doing. This is a big killer on pace of play.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

"As awareness of these initiatives grows among athletes, staff and everyone working on the ground, that in itself contributes to a greater sense of psychological safety," said Chida.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

He said more awareness can be brought through women speaking out about their symptoms.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Danny Saunders screamed in Yiddish across the field, and more out of obedience than awareness the third baseman put a foot on the base.

From "The Chosen" by Chaim Potok

Related Words

• alertness
• appreciation
• attention
• consciousness
• information
• perception
• realization
• recognition
• understanding