Meaning & Definition of word "Consciousness"

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    Consciousness

    /ˈkɒnʃəsnəs/

    noun:

    • 1. The state of being aware of and able to think and perceive one's surroundings, thoughts, and feelings.
      • Example: She regained consciousness after the surgery and could recognize her family.
    • 2. The awareness or perception of an external object or something within oneself.
      • Example: His consciousness expanded as he explored the depths of his mind during meditation.
    • 3. The totality of thought, feeling, and perception that constitutes an individual's awareness.
      • Example: Her deep consciousness was reflected in her insightful writing.
    • 4. The condition of being aware of something.
      • Example: There is a growing consciousness about the environmental issues facing our planet.
    • 5. The quality or state of being conscious.
      • Example: The patient was in a state of altered consciousness during the entire procedure.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'con-' meaning 'with' and 'scire' meaning 'to know', thus consciousness is the state of being aware.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    expanded consciousness:

    A heightened state of awareness or perception beyond normal levels.

    altered state of consciousness:

    A condition of awareness that differs from normal waking consciousness.

    collective consciousness:

    The set of shared beliefs and attitudes within a group.

    stream of consciousness:

    A narrative mode that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings.

    consciousness-raising:

    Activities aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of social issues.

    Related Words

    awareness:

    The state of being conscious of something.

    perception:

    The process of interpreting sensory information.

    mind:

    The set of cognitive faculties that enables consciousness.

    thought:

    An idea or opinion produced by thinking.

    sentience:

    The capacity to feel, perceive, or experience subjectively.

    Slang Meanings of consciousness

    Meaning: Woke

    Example Sentence: Since he learned about social issues, he's been so woke.

    Meaning: In the zone

    Example Sentence: When she's dancing, she's really in the zone, totally in tune with her body.