VocabDictionary

obliviousness

/əˈblɪv.i.əs.nəs/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one.

Example Sentences:
  • His total obliviousness to the tension in the room made the meeting incredibly awkward for everyone else.
  • She walked through the crowded market with a serene obliviousness to the noise and chaos surrounding her.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “obliviousness”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'obliviosus' (forgetful), which stems from 'oblivisci' (to forget). The root 'ob-' (against/over) combined with 'livisci' (related to 'lividus' or 'dark/bluish') suggests a metaphorical 'darkening' of the mind, where memories or awareness are obscured or blotted out.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'oblivion'—when you are in a state of obliviousness, you are in a state of oblivion, completely unaware of your surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions About “obliviousness

1. What is the meaning of “obliviousness” in English?

In English, obliviousness (noun) is defined as: “The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one.”.

2. How do you use “obliviousness” in a sentence?

His total obliviousness to the tension in the room made the meeting incredibly awkward for everyone else.

3. What are English synonyms of “obliviousness”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “obliviousness”?

Derived from the Latin 'obliviosus' (forgetful), which stems from 'oblivisci' (to forget). The root 'ob-' (against/over) combined with 'livisci' (related to 'lividus' or 'dark/bluish') suggests a metaphorical 'darkening' of the mind, where memories or awareness are obscured or blotted out.