memorize

verb

mem·​o·​rize ˈme-mə-ˌrīz 

memorized; memorizing

transitive verb

: to commit to memory : learn by heart

actors memorizing their lines

memorizable

ˌme-mə-ˈrī-zə-bəl 

adjective

memorizer noun

Synonyms of memorize

• learn
• study

Examples of memorize in a Sentence

an actress memorizing her lines

everyone has to memorize a poem for next week's class

Recent Examples on the Web

A student can graduate with honors, having memorized the Phillips curve and explained the mechanics of quantitative easing, and still have no idea how compound interest works against a borrower. —Gerald Bradshaw, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026

While fundamental knowledge of what these commands do remains necessary, the need to memorize granular syntax is fading. —Mohith Shrivastava, Fortune, 31 Mar. 2026

And to memorize that [lengthy dialogue] at [McKellen’s] age, honestly, is a remarkable feat. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026

Ash found success by attending revival-style sales conventions and memorizing every smile, wink, and maxim in the Stanley songbook. —Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for memorize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

memorize

verb

mem·​o·​rize ˈmem-ə-ˌrīz 

memorized; memorizing

: to learn by heart

memorization

ˌmem-(ə-)rə-ˈzā-shən 

noun