conscious
UK: ˈkɒnʃəs | US: ˈkɑːnʃəs
adj. aware of and responding to one's surroundings; awake
adj. having knowledge of something (e.g., conscious of the risks)
adj. (of an action) deliberate and intentional
conscious = con<with> + sci<know> + ous<adjective suffix>
- con<with>: Latin prefix meaning "with" or "together."
- sci<know>: From Latin scire ("to know"), also seen in science and omniscient.
- ous<adjective suffix>: Forms adjectives indicating possession of a quality (e.g., joyous, dangerous).
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin conscius ("knowing with others" or "sharing knowledge"), conscious originally implied shared awareness. Over time, it narrowed to focus on individual perception. The root sci (knowledge) is central, linking to words like conscience (moral awareness) and prescience (foreknowledge). The suffix -ous solidifies its role as an adjective describing a state of awareness.
She was barely conscious after the accident.
He made a conscious effort to improve his posture.
They were conscious of being watched.
The patient became fully conscious within minutes.
Eco-conscious consumers prefer sustainable products.