obliviousness

[ uh-bliv-ee-uhs-nis ]

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.

Other Words From

• sem·i·ob·liv·i·ous·ness noun
• un·ob·liv·i·ous·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of obliviousness¹

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

Example Sentences

“I honestly feel like I just don’t pay attention,” explained Tess Steplyk of her six-year streak of quake obliviousness.

From Los Angeles Times

Alito’s apparent obliviousness to conflicts of interest and his penchant for peevish shows of right-wing partisanship are second only to those of his Republican-appointed colleague Justice Clarence Thomas, spouse of “Stop the Steal” schemer Ginni Thomas.

From Seattle Times

“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

“The White House signaled both obliviousness and weakness by not recognizing that today’s Middle East conflict is not Palestinians or Arabs against Israel, but an Iranian war against ‘the little Satan,’” John R. Bolton, who served as national security adviser to Mr. Trump and was a sharp opponent of the Iran deal, wrote on Sunday.

From New York Times

The ostentatious coronation probably didn’t help a royal family already tarnished by Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Netflix’s ‘The Crown’ and general obliviousness.

From Los Angeles Times