Memorization: meaning, definitions and examples

🧠
Add to dictionary

memorization

 

[ mɛmərɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mental process

The process of committing something to memory, or the ability to remember information.

Synonyms

learning by heart, recollection, retention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
memorization

Used when discussing the process of committing information to memory for the purpose of recall later. Often used in educational or training settings.

  • The students focused on memorization of vocabulary words for the language test
  • Successful memorization techniques can boost exam performance
learning by heart

Commonly used to describe the act of memorizing something thoroughly, often used in informal or everyday contexts. This phrase has a slightly more intimate or personal tone.

  • She learned the poem by heart and recited it fluently in front of the class
  • Learning phone numbers by heart has become less common with the advent of smartphones
recollection

Used to describe the act of remembering something from the past. It speaks more to the retrieval of memory than the initial memorization process.

  • With great recollection, he recounted the events of his childhood
  • His recollection of the details was impressive, even after so many years
retention

Refers to the ability to keep information over time. Often used in educational contexts to discuss how well information is held and maintained in memory.

  • The training program was designed to enhance retention of key concepts
  • Good sleep can significantly improve retention of newly learned information

Examples of usage

  • Memorization is often necessary for students preparing for exams.
  • She had an incredible talent for memorization.
Context #2 | Noun

performance

The act of accurately remembering and reciting information, such as a speech or script.

Synonyms

recitation, repetition, rote learning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
memorization

Refers to the act of remembering or recalling information deliberately learned.

  • Her memorization of historical dates was impressive
recitation

Typically used when someone is speaking or reading something aloud from memory, often poetry or a prepared text.

  • His recitation of Shakespeare's sonnets captivated the audience
repetition

Describes the act of doing or saying something over and over again, often to learn it more thoroughly.

  • Repetition of drills is crucial in sports training
rote learning

Refers to learning by memorization without understanding the content. It often has a negative connotation as it implies surface-level learning.

  • Many students rely on rote learning for exams, but this method does not promote deep understanding

Examples of usage

  • His flawless memorization of the entire play impressed the audience.
  • Memorization is a key skill for actors.
Context #3 | Noun

skills

The practice of memorizing information in a structured way to improve cognitive abilities.

Synonyms

cognitive enhancement, memory training, mnemonics.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
memorization

Often used in educational settings to refer to the process of committing information to memory.

  • Students used flashcards for their memorization
  • Effective memorization can help in scoring better on exams
mnemonics

Used when talking about techniques or strategies designed to aid memory, such as acronyms or rhymes.

  • To remember the order of the planets, she used the mnemonic ‘My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles
  • ’ Mnemonics can help students memorize complex information more easily
memory training

Refers to systematic activities or exercises aimed at improving one’s memory capabilities.

  • He attended a workshop on memory training to help remember names and faces better
  • Memory training techniques can significantly boost recall ability
cognitive enhancement

Typically used in contexts that involve improvement of overall brain functions, possibly through drugs, exercises, or other means.

  • Neuroscientists are studying various methods for cognitive enhancement
  • Some people use nootropics for cognitive enhancement

Examples of usage

  • Memorization techniques can enhance memory and focus.
  • Memory champions use elaborate methods for memorization.

Translations

Translations of the word "memorization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 memorização

🇮🇳 याद करने की क्रिया

🇩🇪 das Auswendiglernen

🇮🇩 menghafal

🇺🇦 запам'ятовування

🇵🇱 zapamiętywanie

🇯🇵 暗記 (あんき)

🇫🇷 mémorisation

🇪🇸 memorización

🇹🇷 ezberleme

🇰🇷 암기 (amgi)

🇸🇦 حفظ (hifz)

🇨🇿 zapamatování

🇸🇰 zapamätanie

🇨🇳 记忆 (jìyì)

🇸🇮 pomnjenje

🇮🇸 minnisæfing

🇰🇿 есте сақтау

🇬🇪 დაზეპირება

🇦🇿 əzbərləmə

🇲🇽 memorización

Etymology

The word 'memorization' is derived from the Latin word 'memorizare', meaning 'to bring to mind'. The concept of memorization has been essential throughout history, from oral traditions in ancient civilizations to modern educational practices. The development of mnemonic devices and memory techniques has further advanced the art of memorization, aiding in learning and cognitive improvement.

See also: memorable, memorial, memories, memorize.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,631, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.