knowledge

noun

ˈnä-lij How to pronounce knowledge (audio)
Definition of knowledgenext
1
as in science
a body of facts learned by study or experience the forest ranger shared some of his vast knowledge of the woods with us a knowledge of local customs

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in literacy
the understanding and information gained from being educated the purpose of the tests is to evaluate how much knowledge you have gained in a particular subject

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in awareness
a state of being aware my knowledge that I was watching a true story made the film more compelling

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun knowledge differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of knowledge are erudition, learning, and scholarship. While all these words mean "what is or can be known by an individual or by humankind," knowledge applies to facts or ideas acquired by study, investigation, observation, or experience.

rich in the knowledge of human nature

In what contexts can erudition take the place of knowledge?

While in some cases nearly identical to knowledge, erudition strongly implies the acquiring of profound, recondite, or bookish learning.

an erudition unusual even in a scholar

When would learning be a good substitute for knowledge?

The words learning and knowledge are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, learning applies to knowledge acquired especially through formal, often advanced, schooling.

a book that demonstrates vast learning

Where would scholarship be a reasonable alternative to knowledge?

In some situations, the words scholarship and knowledge are roughly equivalent. However, scholarship implies the possession of learning characteristic of the advanced scholar in a specialized field of study or investigation.

a work of first-rate literary scholarship

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of knowledge In Eckhart's case, Fox has resolutely rejected any knowledge of and hence responsibility for Henry's actions and assault. — David Folkenflik, NPR, 13 Mar. 2025 Four of the church’s elders were removed by the board in November 2024 after an independent investigation revealed that the elders had knowledge of Morris’ behavior prior to Clemishire speaking out. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Mar. 2025 Many of us are working through internalized shame, anxiety, and a general lack of knowledge about our own bodies. — Quispe López, Them, 12 Mar. 2025 However, as the economy becomes more complex, many Americans fail to understand a new layer of advanced financial knowledge. — Martin Mulyadi, Baltimore Sun, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for knowledge
Recent Examples of Synonyms for knowledge
  1. science
  2. literacy
  3. awareness
  4. wisdom
  5. learning
  6. attention
  7. education
  8. mindfulness
Noun
  • There is hardly a shortage of beauty products that are tested and backed by science that will probably work better for you in the long run.
    — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The blackboard helps highlight the significance of knowing scientists as real people and the importance of studying the history of science, especially for younger scientists, Padilla said.
    — Somayeh Malekian, ABC News, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of science
Noun
  • According to the United Nations, without additional measures, by 2030 approximately 300 million students globally will lack basic numeracy and literacy skills.
    — UNICEF USA, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The gap is wider among underserved cohorts of women, such as those with low literacy levels, low incomes, or disabilities.
    — Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of literacy
Noun
  • During the pandemic, our agency saw strong benefits for consumers (and ROI for a client) by streamlining testing awareness.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
  • What is certain not to change anytime soon is the distinct connection between American consumers and celebrities and the ability to create on-demand awareness for your brand through that powerful relationship.
    — Anthony Moniello, Rolling Stone, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of awareness
Noun
  • Persuaded by the wisdom of all this, Queen Morgaise relents with a smile — but also leaves Elaida at the White Tower to monitor the situation.
    — Sean T. Collins, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2025
  • This shift is not a sign of decline but rather a maturation process that leads to wisdom—the kind of knowledge that has kept human societies thriving for millennia.
    — Talia Milgrom-Elcott, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of wisdom
Noun
  • These include learning and behavioral problems that appear later in life.
    — Lori Frasier, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Industry volunteers could mentor students on real-world applications like data analysis and machine learning, educating through hands-on experience.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of learning
Noun
  • Playing strategic games like online chess demands strategic planning and focused attention.
    — Dominique Fluker, Essence, 10 Mar. 2025
  • The Red Storm, an afterthought for so long, are now receiving attention in New York City and beyond.
    — Tim Casey, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
Definition of attention
Noun
  • Americans advanced toward universal primary and then secondary education without a federal Department of Education.
    — The Editors, National Review, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Thanks to President Trump for working to return education to the states.
    — Christopher Tremoglie, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of education
Noun
  • There’s also walking meditation, a foundational mindfulness technique.
    — Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Cultural sensitivity matters: Consider diverse perspectives when developing mindfulness programs.
    — First Place for Youth, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025
Definition of mindfulness

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Cite this Entry

“Knowledge.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/knowledge. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on knowledge

Nglish: Translation of knowledge for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about knowledge

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