obliviousness

American  

[uh-bliv-ee-uhs-nis] / əˈblɪv i əs nɪs /

noun

1. the fact or state of being unconscious, unaware, or unmindful.

   Her utter obliviousness to her own lack of personal hygiene was the most remarkable thing about her.

2. the fact or state of being without remembrance of something; forgetfulness.

   Obliviousness to our past errors, and lack of resolve about our future action, are keeping us from moving forward.

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Other Word Forms

• semiobliviousness
  noun
• unobliviousness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of obliviousness

First recorded in 1525–35; oblivious ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Pigossi’s self-obsessed novelist, however, is perfectly pitched in his all-around obliviousness.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 3, 2025

“That reflects Herod’s obliviousness to the richness of nature. For me, he is one of these people who violate not only other people but the earth itself.”

From Seattle Times • Apr. 18, 2024

Identifying behaviors that make us recoil, like self-absorption and obliviousness, requires an ironic amount of self-reflection.

From New York Times • Jun. 3, 2023

Someday this chapter may be viewed as fascinating for its obliviousness and, from a public relations standpoint, its recklessness.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2023

Thanks to his obliviousness, he and George had been ruthlessly mauled.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz