Synonyms for

Innocence

Verb / ˈɪnʌsʌns / Another word for innocence — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state of being free from guilt or wrongdoing.

Synonyms & similar words

sinlessness guilt naturalness artlessness pureness purity whiteness ingenuousness purity naivete innocency blamelessness guiltlessness harmlessness inexperience virginity simplicity neutrality clarity whiteness plainness uncorruptedness integrity artlessness chastity cleanliness decency fairness

Synonyms by register

Formal

naivety ingenuousness simplicity guilelessness

Informal

greenness unsophistication newness

Literary

purity spotlessness undefiledness

Antonyms

guilt corruption wickedness depravity sinfulness malice cunning

Common collocations

  • childlike innocence
  • plead innocence
  • maintain innocence
  • prove innocence
  • loss of innocence
  • shocking innocence
  • utter innocence

Word family

noun innocence
adjective innocent
adverb innocently

Usage note

Often refers to a lack of guilt or blame, but can also describe a lack of experience or worldliness, especially in children. Be mindful of context to distinguish between these meanings.

Example sentences

  1. The child's innocence was evident in her wide-eyed curiosity.
  2. He pleaded for his innocence in the crime.
  3. The innocence of the accused was proven through DNA evidence.
  4. The teacher admired the innocence of her students.
  5. The loss of innocence is a common theme in coming-of-age stories.

Quotes

  • 'The only true innocence is in ignorance.' - Keith Richards
  • 'Innocence is like polished armor; it adorns and defends.' - Bishop Robert South
  • 'Innocence is a splendid thing, only it has the misfortune not to keep very well and to be easily misled.' - Jean Jacques Rousseau

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