Memorabilia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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memorabilia
[ˌmemərəˈbɪliə ]
Definition
collecting items
Objects valued for their historical significance, sentimental value, or personal connection, often collected and preserved as souvenirs or keepsakes.
Synonyms
keepsakes, mementos, souvenirs.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| memorabilia |
Used to refer to items collected or treasured for their historical interest or memories, often related to famous events, people, or activities, usually is used in more formal or commercial situations.
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| souvenirs |
Used for items bought or brought back from a place visited, generally as a reminder of the trip and usually inexpensive.
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| keepsakes |
Used for small items kept in memory of the person who gave it or the event with which it is associated, often with sentimental value.
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| mementos |
Used for objects kept as reminders of a person or event, often carried or lightweight items, generally used in personal or informal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- His collection of memorabilia included autographed photos, concert tickets, and movie posters.
- She cherished the memorabilia from her grandparents' wedding, such as the old love letters and wedding dress.
- The museum showcased a wide range of sports memorabilia, including jerseys, medals, and equipment.
- Tourists often buy memorabilia like keychains and magnets as mementos of their trip.
- The memorabilia auction featured rare items from famous historical figures and events.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- Collecting memorabilia became popular in the 20th century, especially related to movies, music, and sports.
- World War II memorabilia includes uniforms, medals, and letters, reflecting personal stories of the era.
- Celebrity memorabilia often holds immense value in auctions, representing cultural impact and nostalgic significance.
Pop Culture
- Movie memorabilia, such as props and costumes, often fetches high prices at auctions, driven by fandom.
- Collecting music memorabilia, like vinyl records and concert posters, has become a major hobby for many enthusiasts.
- Sports memorabilia, from jerseys to signed footballs, connects fans to their favorite teams and athletes.
Psychology
- Holding onto memorabilia can help individuals create a sense of identity and continuity.
- Nostalgia derived from memorabilia can provide comfort, especially during difficult times by recalling positive memories.
- The desire to collect memorabilia is often linked to emotional attachment and the need to preserve personal history.
Art and Literature
- In literature, memorabilia often serves as a plot device, representing a character's past or emotional journey.
- In art, pieces of memorabilia can inspire works that reflect on society, culture, and shared history.
- Famous authors and artists' memorabilia, including drafts and personal items, are often exhibited in museums, attracting fans and scholars.
Origin of 'memorabilia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'memorabilium', which means 'things to be remembered'.
- Originally used in English in the 19th century, it referred to noteworthy events.
- The term evolved to encompass various keepsakes associated with personal memories and history.
The term 'memorabilia' originated from Latin, where 'memorabilia' means 'memorable things'. It first appeared in English in the late 18th century, referring to objects that hold sentimental or historical significance. Over time, memorabilia has become associated with collecting items of personal or cultural value, often related to famous people, events, or places. The popularity of collecting memorabilia has grown, with enthusiasts seeking out rare or unique pieces to add to their collections.