Memento Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
memento
[mษหmษntoส ]
Definitions
memory aid
Something kept as a reminder of a person, event, or place; a souvenir.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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memento |
A memento is typically an object that is kept as a reminder of a person, place, or event. It often carries sentimental value.
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souvenir |
A souvenir is an item purchased or brought back from a place you have visited. It is often used in the context of travel and tourism.
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keepsake |
A keepsake is a small object one keeps to remember a person or event. It often has personal significance.
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reminder |
A reminder can be anything that helps someone remember something. It doesn't necessarily have to be a physical object and can be negative if it serves an unwelcomed purpose.
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Examples of usage
- He kept the ticket stub as a memento of the concert.
- The locket was a memento of her grandmother.
film
A movie or other piece of writing that is intended to remind people of something important.
Synonyms
commemoration, memorial, reminder.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
memento |
A small object kept as a reminder of a person or event. Typically personal and sentimental in nature.
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reminder |
An object or action that prompts someone to remember something. Usually practical and not necessarily sentimental.
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memorial |
A structure, statue, or other permanent object established to remember and honor a person or event. Often found in public places.
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commemoration |
An event or ceremony to honor or remember a significant event or person. Often formal and public.
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Examples of usage
- The film serves as a memento of the war.
- The book is a memento of the author's childhood.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culture
- In many cultures, mementos are used to remember loved ones who have passed away, often displayed in homes or carried with them.
- Souvenirs from travels are considered mementos, reminding people of experiences and adventures.
- Weddings and other significant events often include mementos, like invitations or photographs, to cherish memories.
Art and Literature
- The concept of keepsakes appears prominently in literature, symbolizing nostalgia and emotional connections.
- In film, like 'Memento' directed by Christopher Nolan, the idea of memory and identity is central to the plot.
- Artists sometimes create works that act as mementos, capturing moments in time that evoke emotional responses.
Psychology
- Studies show that physical objects can enhance memory recall, making mementos powerful tools for remembering past events.
- Emotional connections to objects often lead to stronger memories, as sentiments tied to them create lasting impressions.
- The act of giving or receiving a memento can strengthen relationships by creating shared memories.
History
- Historical artifacts, like coins or letters, often serve as mementos of significant events or figures.
- During wars, soldiers kept mementos from home to maintain connections to their loved ones.
- Many museums showcase mementos from different eras, helping people understand cultural history and personal stories.
Origin of 'memento'
Main points about word origin
- 'Memento' comes from the Latin word 'memento', meaning 'remember'.
- The term gained prominence during the Renaissance as a way to refer to keepsakes or reminders.
- It is often paired with phrases like 'memento mori' which means 'remember you must die', reminding people of mortality.
The word 'memento' comes from the Latin word 'mementล' which means 'remember'. It was first used in English in the late 15th century. Originally, 'memento' referred to an object that serves to remind the owner of a person or event, often carried or kept as a souvenir. Over time, the word has also come to be used in the context of films or other media that serve as reminders of important events or themes.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,675, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 24672 posturing
- 24673 prototyping
- 24674 starkly
- 24675 memento
- 24676 invulnerable
- 24677 hermitage
- 24678 upstart
- ...