innocence
UK: ˈɪnəsəns | US: ˈɪnəsəns
n. the state of being innocent; lack of guilt or wrongdoing
n. simplicity or naivety, often due to lack of experience
n. (archaic) harmlessness or inoffensiveness
innocence = in<not> + noc<harm> + ence<noun suffix>
- in (Latin prefix meaning "not")
- noc (from Latin nocēre, meaning "to harm")
- ence (noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "innocence" traces back to Latin innocentia, derived from in- (not) + nocēre (to harm). It originally described the literal absence of harm or guilt, later expanding to include moral purity and childlike naivety. The root noc also appears in words like "noxious" (harmful) and "innocuous" (harmless), showcasing its persistent semantic core.
The jury believed in her innocence and acquitted her.
His wide-eyed innocence charmed everyone he met.
The law presumes innocence until guilt is proven.
She lost her innocence after witnessing the harsh realities of life.
The child’s innocence was evident in his trusting nature.