recollect
Recollect (verb) means to bring a past memory back to mind; to remember, often with some effort. Example: “I can't quite recollect where I left my keys.”
How to use recollect
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo remember something, especially by making an effort to recall it.
Similar to "remember" but often implies more deliberate effort to recall detail, as opposed to something that just comes to mind automatically.
Word forms
recollected past tense, recollected past tense, Recollects plural, recollects singular, recollects singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
I can't quite _____ where I left my keys.
Etymology
From Latin recolligere, "to gather again," from re- ("again") and colligere ("to collect, gather"). Formed the same way as "recollection."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for recollect
See all rhymes for recollect →Frequently asked questions
What does “recollect” mean?
The word “recollect” means to bring a past memory back to mind; to remember, often with some effort. In plain terms, to remember something, especially by making an effort to recall it.
How do you pronounce “recollect”?
“Recollect” is pronounced reh-kuh-LEHKT (/ɹɛkəˈlɛkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “recollect” in a sentence?
Here is “recollect” used in a sentence: “I can't quite recollect where I left my keys.”
What part of speech is “recollect”?
“Recollect” is a verb.
Where does the word “recollect” come from?
The word “recollect” comes from Latin. From Latin recolligere, "to gather again," from re- ("again") and colligere ("to collect, gather"). Formed the same way as "recollection.".
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