Forgot: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'forgietan', meaning to lose the power of remembering.
• Related to the German 'vergessen' and Dutch 'vergeten', all have roots in similar meanings of forgetting.
• The prefix 'for-' can imply 'missing' or 'away,' suggesting that something has gone far from one's memory.

Psychology

• Forgetting can occur due to interference, where new information overwhelms or disrupts the recall of older memories.
• The phenomenon known as 'spacing effect' shows that we remember things better if we're given time between learning sessions.
• Emotional content in memories can make them more likely to be forgotten if the feelings are too overwhelming or traumatic.

Pop Culture

• In movies and literature, characters often 'forget' critical information that leads to humorous or dramatic situations.
• Songs about forgetting often reflect on lost love or memories, such as 'Forget You' by CeeLo Green which conveys the pain of remembering someone.
• Television shows often explore themes of amnesia, showcasing how forgetfulness can alter the lives and identities of characters.

Science

• Studies show that the brain processes and forgets information as a way to prioritize important memories, focusing on what matters most.
• Sleep research reveals that memory consolidation occurs during sleep, and lack of sleep can lead to increased forgetfulness.
• The 'forgetting curve', developed by Hermann Ebbinghaus, demonstrates how information is lost over time when there is no attempt to retain it.

Literature

• Many poets and authors explore the theme of forgetfulness as a way to express loss, nostalgia, or the passage of time.
• Shakespeare’s works often touch on memory and forgetfulness, particularly in how characters deal with love and betrayal.
• Contemporary authors like Kazuo Ishiguro highlight the tension between memory and forgetting in exploring personal identity.

At #6,311 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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