Main Entry: mem·o·ran·dum

Pronunciation: \ˌme-mə-ˈran-dəm\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural mem·o·ran·dums or mem·o·ran·da \-də\

Etymology: Middle English, to be remembered, from Latin, neuter of memorandus, gerundive of memorare

Date: 15th century

1 : an informal record; also : a written reminder
2 : an informal written note of a transaction or proposed instrument
3 a : an informal diplomatic communication b : a usually brief communication written for interoffice circulation c : a communication that contains directive, advisory, or informative matter

usage Although some commentators warn against the use of memoranda as a singular and condemn the plural memorandas, our evidence indicates that these forms are rarely encountered in print. We have a little evidence of the confusion of forms, including use of memorandum as a plural, in speech (as at congressional hearings). As plurals memoranda and memorandums are about equally frequent.