DictionaryawareKnowing or noticing
adjective

aware

uh-WAIR/əˈwer/

Knowing or noticing that something exists or is happening.

The cyclist is aware of the pothole and slows down.

An adult Latina cyclist sees a pothole in her path and slows while looking directly at it.
Etymology

Old English gewær meant “watchful, vigilant.” The connection is attentive perception: being alert to what is around you shades into noticing or having knowledge of something.

In context

Yaron Brook28:55
having a background in philosophy makes you very aware of what methods are being used
Yaron Interviews: Alex Epstein -- Fossil Future

More examples

  • She became aware of footsteps behind her.
  • They were not aware that the entrance had moved.
  • He was keenly aware of the deadline.

Forms

aware

awareness noun — Knowledge or notice of something.

Similar words

conscious
Can mean aware of something or awake.
alert
Emphasizes readiness to notice and respond.