remembrance
ri-MEM-bruhns
/rɪˈmɛmbrəns/
The action of remembering something; a memory or a token of memory.
Often carries a sentimental or emotional weight, frequently used in the context of mourning.
The story behind the word. Coming from Old French, it entered English in the 14th century. It has always bridged the gap between the internal thought and the external ceremony.
Word relationships
- recollection: Recollection is the mental process of calling back a fact; remembrance is the emotional act of honoring it.
- oblivion: The state of being completely forgotten or unknown.
Commonly confused with
- memory: Memory is the faculty of the brain; remembrance is the formal act of using that faculty for honor.
Word family
- remember (verb): To bring back to one's mind.
Collocations
- in remembrance of
- day of remembrance
- wreath of remembrance
Idioms & expressions
- lest we forget
Example sentences
- "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance; pray, love, remember." A famous line from Shakespeare's Hamlet.
- "The service was held in remembrance of those who gave their lives." A service for veterans.
Memory hook
Remembrance is the 'entrance' of a 'member' of the past back into your mind. Memory in action.
When not to use
Avoid using it for technical data retrieval; it is too poetic for computer science contexts.
Fun facts
- The poppy is the international symbol of remembrance, inspired by the poem 'In Flanders Fields' during WWI.
Related words
Explore more words
memento, reminiscence, sentimental, souvenir, keepsake, nostalgia
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