Definitions

oblivious

[uh-bliv-ee-uhs] / əˈblɪv i əs /

ADJECTIVE

unaware, ignorant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

blind deaf inattentive unconcerned unfamiliar uninformed

WEAK

absent absentminded absorbed abstracted amnesic blundering careless disregardful distracted dreamy forgetful forgetting gone heedless incognizant inconversant insensible neglectful negligent not all there out to lunch overlooking preoccupied regardless spacey strung-out unacquainted unconscious undiscerning uninstructed unknowing unmindful unnoticing unobservant unrecognizing unwitting zonked

Antonyms

STRONGEST

attentive aware

WEAK

concerned conscious mindful sensitive understanding

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There is nothing so gauche as a routine, mind you, but he dances with the oblivious cool of a best man at a wedding where everyone knows the bride prefers him to her new husband.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2026

And she adds: “The court’s apparently oblivious insistence to the contrary today cannot be squared with what Callais said on its face just over one month ago.”

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2026

Sánchez Bezos’ choice to reference “Madame X” is both knowing and blithely oblivious.

From Salon • May 6, 2026

U.S. natural gas futures edged higher with the market seemingly oblivious to events in the Middle East and awaiting signs of greater weather-driven demand.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

Abay and Dada were oblivious to those around them as they chatted softly to each other.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai

Vocabulary lists containing oblivious

List 4

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A Raisin in the Sun

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Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

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