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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

recollection

reh-kuh-LEHK-shuhn

Recollection (noun) means a memory of something from the past. Example: “Her recollection of the accident was hazy.”

noun
1
A memory of something from the past.
"Her recollection of the accident was hazy."
"He has no recollection of signing the contract."
2
The ability or act of remembering.
"To the best of my recollection, the meeting was on a Tuesday."

How to use recollection

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA memory, or the act of remembering something.

Common pairings
to the best of my recollection vivid recollection have no recollection of

Word forms

recollections plural, recollections plural

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Test yourself on “recollection” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ of the accident was hazy.

Etymology

From Latin recollectus, past participle of recolligere ("to gather again"), from re- plus colligere ("to collect").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for recollection

See all rhymes for recollection →

Frequently asked questions

What does “recollection” mean?

The word “recollection” means a memory of something from the past. In plain terms, a memory, or the act of remembering something.

How do you pronounce “recollection”?

“Recollection” is pronounced reh-kuh-LEHK-shuhn (/ɹɛkəˈlɛkʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “recollection” in a sentence?

Here is “recollection” used in a sentence: “Her recollection of the accident was hazy.”

What is another word for “recollection”?

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

What is the opposite of “recollection”?

The opposite of “recollection” — its antonyms — are lethe, misrecollection, forgetfulness, forgetness and oblivion.

What part of speech is “recollection”?

“Recollection” is a noun.

Where does the word “recollection” come from?

The word “recollection” comes from Latin. From Latin recollectus, past participle of recolligere ("to gather again"), from re- plus colligere ("to collect").

Is “recollection” a common word?

“Recollection” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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