reminisce
rem-uh-NIS
/ˌrɛmɪˈnɪs/
To indulge in enjoyable recollection of past events, experiences, or journeys.
Carries a positive tone; involves active, prolonged discussion or reflection upon past pleasant times.
The story behind the word. Rooted in Latin 'reminisci' (to recall to mind), built from 're-' (again) and 'mens' (mind). It entered English in the 19th century to describe the intentional, enjoyable journey of walking through past memories again.
Word relationships
- recollect: Recollect is a neutral mental act of retrieving facts, while reminisce involves emotional savoring of pleasant memories.
- remember: Remember is a basic cognitive function, whereas reminisce implies shared or extended storytelling.
- forget: To lose memory or fail to recall.
Commonly confused with
- ruminate: Ruminate means dwelling gloomily on problems, while reminisce focuses on fond recollection.
Word family
- reminiscence (noun): A memory or the act of recalling the past.
- reminiscent (adjective): Tending to remind one of something.
Collocations
- reminisce about the past
- fondly reminisce
- sit and reminisce
Example sentences
- "The old friends sat around the campfire to reminisce about their youth and adventure trips." Reunion campfire story
Memory hook
REMINISCE: Bring back memories into your MIND (MINIS / mens) once again. Fondly recall past times.
When not to use
Do not use to describe painful, obsessive regret or trauma rumination.
Fun facts
- Psychological studies show that reminiscing about past travels releases dopamine, providing a mental refresh similar to taking an actual vacation.
Explore more words
celebrate, commemorate, indulge, remembrance, memento, souvenir
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