ˈɪɡnəɹənt ɪˈlɪtəɹət uneducated in the fundamentals of a given art or branch of learning; lacking knowledge of a specific field she is ignorant of quantum mechanics he is musically illiterate uneducated in general; lacking knowledge or sophistication an ignorant man nescient of contemporary literature an unlearned group incapable of understanding complex issues exhibiting contempt for his unlettered companions unaware because of a lack of relevant information or knowledge he was completely ignorant of the circumstances an unknowledgeable assistant his rudeness was unwitting