memory

1
as in recollection
the power or process of recalling what has been previously learned or experienced a photographic memory makes taking tests entirely too easy

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in memorial
a particular act or instance of recalling or the thing remembered I have only the vaguest memory of the family vacation we took the year I turned three

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word memory distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of memory are recollection, remembrance, and reminiscence. While all these words mean "the capacity for or the act of remembering, or the thing remembered," memory applies both to the power of remembering and to what is remembered.

gifted with a remarkable memory
that incident was now just a distant memory

When is it sensible to use recollection instead of memory?

While the synonyms recollection and memory are close in meaning, recollection adds an implication of consciously bringing back to mind often with some effort.

after a moment's recollection he produced the name

When is remembrance a more appropriate choice than memory?

The words remembrance and memory are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, remembrance applies to the act of remembering or the fact of being remembered.

any remembrance of his deceased wife was painful

When might reminiscence be a better fit than memory?

The words reminiscence and memory can be used in similar contexts, but reminiscence suggests the recalling of usually pleasant incidents, experiences, or feelings from a remote past.

my grandmother's reminiscences of her Iowa girlhood

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of memory That time could be better spent exploring and making memories. Megan Schaltegger, Travel + Leisure, 16 Jan. 2025 Official White House photographers share exclusive images with PEOPLE, capturing memories from Joe Biden's tenure as president of the United States Comments After four years in the Oval Office, Joe Biden is saying goodbye to his role as the president of the United States. Lizzie Hyman, People.com, 16 Jan. 2025 However, her memory gaps were filled in after conversing with Ye once she was hired as his assistant, Chief of Staff, and A&R for the musician. Marc Griffin, VIBE.com, 15 Jan. 2025 Donations in his memory can be made to the Rockland Homes for Heroes. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for memory 

Thesaurus Entries Near memory

Cite this Entry

“Memory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/memory. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

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