memory

The word “memory” means the brain's ability to store and recall information or past experiences. In plain terms, the ability to recall past information, a specific recollection, or a computer's data storage.

“Memory” is pronounced MEHM-uh-ree (/ˈmɛm.ə.ɹi/ in IPA).

Here is “memory” used in a sentence: “Her memory for names is remarkable.”

Words with a similar meaning to “memory” include recall, recollection, rememoration and reminiscence.

The opposite of “memory” — its antonyms — is blank.

“Memory” is a noun.

The word “memory” comes from Latin. From Old French memoire, from Latin memoria ("remembrance"), from memor ("mindful, remembering").

“Memory” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Short-term memory holds a small amount of information briefly, for seconds to minutes, like a phone number you are about to dial. Long-term memory stores information for days to a lifetime, including facts, skills, and experiences. Information can move from short-term to long-term through repetition and meaning.

Yes. Techniques like repetition, association, visualization, and mnemonic devices all strengthen recall. Good sleep, regular exercise, and paying full attention while learning help too. Natural memory ability varies from person to person, but most people can noticeably improve how well they retain and retrieve information with practice.

Psychologists distinguish sensory memory, a brief impression of what we sense; short-term or working memory, which holds information in mind for a short time; and long-term memory, for lasting storage. Long-term memory further divides into explicit memory for facts and events and implicit memory for skills and habits.

Memory lets us learn, recognize people and places, and build on past experience. It underlies language, relationships, and our very sense of identity, since without it we could not accumulate knowledge or make sense of the present. Almost every daily task, from cooking to conversation, depends on recall.