As an adjective, "unaware" describes someone who lacks knowledge, consciousness, or realization about something. It indicates a state of not noticing, understanding, or being informed about a particular situation or fact.
As an adverb, "unaware" means without knowledge or consciousness. It describes an action performed or a state experienced without realization or intention.
The adjective "unaware" is composed of the prefix "un-", meaning "not," and the word "aware," which comes from the Old English "awær", meaning "vigilant, attentive." The combination gives it the meaning of not being vigilant or attentive.
Both the adjective and adverb forms of "unaware" are commonly used in everyday language to describe situations where someone lacks knowledge or consciousness about something. The adjective form is more frequently used, often followed by "of" (e.g., "unaware of the consequences"). The adverbial form is less common but can add nuance to descriptions of actions performed without knowledge or intention.