Language Research

memory · noun

/ˈmem.ə.ri/Full view

Word family

Nouns: memorial, memory

Adjectives: memorable

Verbs: memorize

Adverbs: memorably

memory (COMPUTING)

A2 C or U the amount of information that can be stored on a computer or other electronic device

Dictionary example:

You need 128 megabytes of memory to run this software.

Learner example:

Don't forget it has 4GB [of] memory. (Key English Test; A2; Turkish)

memory (ABILITY TO REMEMBER)

B1 C or U your ability to remember

Dictionary examples:

You have a good memory.

She has an excellent memory for names.

He had a photographic memory.

memory loss

Learner example:

It's about a girl that lives in London and she lost her memory so everybody has to tell her everything about the past. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

memory (EVENT REMEMBERED)

B1 C often plural something that you remember from the past

Dictionary examples:

I have very fond memories of that period of my life.

I have vivid memories of that evening.

That tune really brings back memories.

Learner example:

I have so many good memories. (Preliminary English Test; B1; French)

memory (MIND)

C2 C or U the part of your mind that stores what you remember

Dictionary example:

He recited the poem from memory.

in memory of sb

C2 If you do something in memory of a dead person, you do it to show your respect or love for them.

Dictionary example:

They built a statue in memory of those who died in the fire.

Learner example:

You see, every year our family performs a certain gathering in memory of my brother who was killed in a plane crash in 1991 known as the C130 disaster. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)

a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane

C2 an occasion when you remember some of the good things you did in the past

Dictionary example:

We were just taking a walk down memory lane and recalling our youth.

Learner example:

I want to return there, without the kids, even without my husband, to have a long stroll down memory lane. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Dutch)