Ignores

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

  1. One acts with deliberate indifference to someone or something | To fail to acknowledge or respond to particular information or individuals | An individual chooses to not pay attention to certain facts or people
  2. To deliberately disregard or pay no attention to someone or something
  3. To consciously omit acknowledgment of particular facts, individuals, or information

Etymology: The term "ignores" is a fascinating example of how a simple verb can carry profound implications in communication and human interaction. This word is the third person singular present tense form of the verb "ignore," which itself has an interesting lineage. The roots of "ignore" can be traced back to the Latin word "ignorare," meaning "to not know" or "to be unaware of." This connection to knowledge is significant, as it reflects the notion that to ignore something is, in essence, to be willfully blind to it. The journey of "ignore" into the English language began in the late 14th century, likely around the 1390s. It entered through Old French as "ignorer," which maintained much of the original Latin meaning. However, over time, the term evolved into a more active choice, implying not just a lack of awareness but a deliberate decision to pay no attention to something or someone. This shift highlights a fascinating aspect of human behavior: the ability to consciously overlook information, feelings, or people, often leading to significant social consequences. In contemporary usage, "ignores" carries an emotional weight, often associated with feelings of rejection or negligence. It can evoke strong responses, especially in interpersonal relationships, where being ignored can feel more painful than outright criticism. The evolution from a passive state of ignorance to an active choice to disregard illustrates how language can reflect the complexities of human experience and social dynamics. Thus, while it may seem like a straightforward verb, "ignores" encapsulates a deeper narrative about knowledge, awareness, and the choices we make in our interactions with the world around us.

Synonyms: neglects, overlooks, disregards, snubs, shuns

Antonyms: acknowledges, notices, attends, heeds, observes