awareness

noun

aware·​ness ə-ˈwer-nəs How to pronounce awareness (audio)
Synonyms of awareness
: the quality or state of being aware : knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists
promoting a heightened awareness of the problem
seemed to have only a slight awareness of what was going on
an acute awareness of subtle differences
They hope to raise awareness of endangered species, encouraging donations and attracting tourists to the region to support conservation efforts.New Scientist
The alternative press played a particularly important role in raising political awareness and facilitating mobilization against the regime in South Africa …Larry Diamond

Examples of awareness in a Sentence

while strolling in the big city, maintain an awareness of what's going on around you
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.
Early in the first quarter, Stirtz highlighted his off-ball repertoire and spatial awareness in drifting to the left wing for an open 3-pointer — his first of two makes Saturday. Latif Love, Kansas City Star, 5 July 2026 As fencing takes a backseat in her life, Sullivan, of Madison, said academics, socializing and bringing awareness to issues in women’s sports have become more pressing priorities. Elijah Polance, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026 This is perfect for users, like athletes or cyclists who want permanent situational awareness for safety reasons. Paul Monckton, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 Misconceptions are common around children with autism in parts of Africa that lack reliable data, awareness and government support. ABC News, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for awareness

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of awareness was in 1839

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Cite this Entry

“Awareness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/awareness. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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