innocence

noun

in·​no·​cence ˈi-nə-sən(t)s How to pronounce innocence (audio)
1
a
: freedom from legal guilt of a particular crime or offense
b
: freedom from guilt or sin through being unacquainted with evil : blamelessness
c
: lack of knowledge : ignorance
… written in entire innocence of the Italian language.E. R. Bentley
d(1)
: freedom from guile or cunning : simplicity
(2)
: lack of worldly experience or sophistication
e
2
: one that is innocent
3
: bluet

Examples of innocence in a Sentence

He vows that he will prove his innocence in court. the trusting innocence of childhood The age of innocence was over.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Blending animation with documentary-style narration, Najjar crafts a visually arresting and emotionally resonant exploration of violence, survival and lost innocence. Jamie Lang, Variety, 9 June 2025 Watkins’ conviction was overturned in 2023, affirming his innocence after years of efforts by his family and the Georgia Innocence Project, according to the lawsuit. Miami Herald, 6 June 2025 The show explores how Nara’s personal life informs his work, and highlights his canny ability to blend childlike innocence with political rebellion. Violet Goldstone, Footwear News, 5 June 2025 Rose admitted to gambling in 2004 after years of claiming his innocence. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for innocence

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of innocence was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Innocence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/innocence. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

innocence

noun
in·​no·​cence ˈin-ə-sən(t)s How to pronounce innocence (audio)
: the quality or state of being innocent

Legal Definition

innocence

noun
in·​no·​cence ˈi-nə-səns How to pronounce innocence (audio)
: freedom from fault or guilt under the law: as
a
: the state of not being guilty of a particular crime or offense compare guilt
b
: the state of not being guilty of an act that constitutes a ground for divorce
c
: ignorance on the part of a party to a transaction of facts that would lead a person of ordinary prudence to make inquiries

More from Merriam-Webster on innocence

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