Forgotten: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something or someone is no longer remembered, especially over time.

• She had forgotten all about the meeting
• The old church had been forgotten for centuries

Used when something or someone is not recalled or commemorated, often implies a lack of recognition or importance.

• The hero's deeds went unremembered for many years
• Many minor characters in history remain unremembered

Used when something cannot be found or is no longer in one's possession.

• He lost his wallet on the subway
• The keys were lost in the move

Used when something gradually loses its importance, brightness, or strength over time.

• Her memories of childhood had faded with time
• The colors of the painting have faded over the years

Used when something is intentionally put out of mind or regarded as unimportant.

• The teacher dismissed his question as irrelevant
• The idea was quickly dismissed by the committee

When someone cannot remember something from the past, typically unintentionally.

• She had forgotten her friend's birthday
• The old song was long forgotten

Used when someone is unable to bring a specific piece of information to mind at a particular moment.

• I know I wrote it down, but I fail to recall where
• During the interview, he failed to recall the name of the company

When someone cannot maintain awareness or keep up with something, such as time, tasks, or information.

• I always lose track of time when I'm reading
• Don't lose track of your assignments, or you might miss the deadline

When someone misses or fails to notice something, often unintentionally. Can have negative connotations if it's a critical mistake.

• She overlooked a small detail which caused the whole plan to fail
• The teacher overlooked his mistake on the test