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

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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

Example 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 Above all, this is a place for those who cherish the mountain lifestyle and enjoy sharing it with new and longtime neighbors, creating memories that will be a legacy for future generations. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2025 The researchers followed up with those people more than 10 years later and gave them cognitive tests to check their processing speed, executive function and memory. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 23 Oct. 2025 He will always be loved by the Soft Cell fans who love his music and his music and memory will live on. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 23 Oct. 2025 Joye said the restaurant is woven into the fabric of the neighborhood tucked between Charlotte Douglas International Airport and uptown, holding memories for many who grew up in the area. Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for memory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for memory
recollection
Noun
  • But there’s a lot to be gained from listening to first-hand recollections.
    Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Deputy Dawson Farley, who was with Grayson the night of the shooting, was questioned about his recollection before jurors saw his body camera video.
    Selina Guevara, NBC news, 22 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Memory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/memory. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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