Memory
ˈmeməri
Definitions
3 meaningsThe ability to retain and recall information, experiences, and sensations.
ˈmeməri
The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information.
Her memory of the event was vivid.
💡 Simply: It's like your brain's personal video recorder and photo album! It's how you remember what happened yesterday, what your best friend's name is, and how to ride a bike. For example, "I have a bad memory and can't recall where I left my keys!"
👶 For kids: Your brain's way of keeping things you've learned or seen in your head so you can remember them later.
More Examples
The old photo triggered a flood of happy memories.
He has a remarkable memory for dates.
How It's Used
"Studies explore the mechanisms of human memory."
"I have a good memory for faces but not for names."
Something that is remembered.
ˈmeməri
A thing remembered; a recollection.
She keeps a collection of precious memories in her mind.
💡 Simply: It's the actual mental picture or feeling of something you remember. Like, “The memory of my first trip to the beach is still so vivid!"
👶 For kids: A picture in your head of something that happened or something you know.
More Examples
The trip created a lasting memory for the whole family.
That song brings back a happy memory.
How It's Used
"The poem evoked a powerful memory of childhood."
"He cherishes the memory of his grandfather."
The part of a computer or other device in which data is stored.
ˈmeməri
The stored data used by a computer.
The new video game requires a lot of memory.
💡 Simply: It’s like your computer's brain for saving information and keeping it ready for use. For example, "This game needs more computer memory to run smoothly."
👶 For kids: The part of a computer that remembers things.
More Examples
Insufficient memory can slow down a computer.
He upgraded the computer's memory to increase its speed.
How It's Used
"The computer requires more memory to run the program."
"The laptop has a large hard drive memory."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
in memory of
Used to commemorate or honor someone who has died.
"The foundation was established in memory of his late wife."
memory lane
A metaphorical place or journey that evokes fond memories of the past.
"We went down memory lane reminiscing about our childhood."
jog someone's memory
To help someone remember something, especially when they have forgotten it.
"I showed her the photo to jog her memory."
From Middle English memorie, from Old French memorie, from Latin memoria, from memor ('mindful, remembering').
The word 'memory' has been used in English since the late 13th century, primarily referring to the ability to retain and recall information. It's evolution closely mirrors the development of human understanding of the mind and its functions.
Memory tip
Think of a mental library where you store experiences and facts.
Word Origin
"remembrance, recollection, memory"