inadvertence
noun
in·ad·ver·tence ˌi-nəd-ˈvər-tᵊn(t)s 
1
: the fact or action of being inadvertent
2
: a result of inattention : oversight
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web As for inventions, accident and inadvertence played a role in the development of Post-it Notes and microwave heating. 
Amanda Foreman, WSJ, 4 May 2018 The history of the game proceeded through intelligence, but also through inadvertence. Jay Caspian Kang, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2017
Amanda Foreman, WSJ, 4 May 2018 The history of the game proceeded through intelligence, but also through inadvertence. Jay Caspian Kang, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2017 Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Medieval Latin inadvertentia, from Latin in- + advertent-, advertens, present participle of advertere to advert
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Legal Definition
inadvertence
noun
in·ad·ver·tence ˌin-əd-ˈvərt-ᵊns
: an accidental oversight (as failing to sign a form)
inadvertence
noun
as in carelessness
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
- carelessness
- inadvertency
- heedlessness
- laxity
- negligence
- neglect
- nonfeasance
- default
- delinquency
- oversight
- misprision
- failure
- dereliction
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
- compliance
- discharge
- fulfillment
- fulfilment