Recollective Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recollective

[rɪˈkɒlɛktɪv ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

memory

Relating to or characterized by recollection; involving the act or process of recalling past experiences or events.

Synonyms

memory-driven, remembering, reminiscent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
recollective	Used in more formal or literary contexts to describe the process or action of recalling past experiences or events. Her recollective journey through childhood was both painful and joyous. The book's recollective narrative transported the readers back in time.
remembering	A straightforward term used in everyday language, referring to the act of recalling information or past events. She had a hard time remembering where she parked the car. Remembering birthdays is important to her.
reminiscent	Describes something that reminds one of past experiences, often used for sensory or evocative descriptions. The old photographs were reminiscent of their childhood adventures. The scent of pine trees was reminiscent of her holidays in the mountains.
memory-driven	Refers to actions, behaviors, or responses significantly influenced by memories. Usually used in a more psychological or analytical context. His decisions are often memory-driven, shaped by past failures and successes. Memory-driven anxiety can affect one's present state of mind.

Examples of usage

He had a recollective moment when he visited his childhood home.
Her recollective abilities helped her solve the mystery of the missing items.
The recollective nature of the photographs brought back memories of the trip.
The recollective process of writing in her journal helped her process her emotions.
The recollective task of organizing old photographs brought back nostalgic feelings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Cognitive psychologists study how the recollective process can be improved through techniques like mnemonics.
Recollective memory can be triggered by sensory experiences, such as smells or sounds, often linking emotions to memories.
Certain types of memory recall can diminish with age, making recollection strategies especially important as we grow older.

Literature

Many authors use recollective narrative styles to revisit past events, creating a sense of nostalgia in their stories.
The concept appears often in poetry, where the act of recollecting sparks vivid imagery and emotions.
In classic literature, characters often engage in recollection to reveal deeper truths about themselves.

Cultural Significance

Cultural rituals often involve collective recollection, such as storytelling traditions that keep history alive.
Recollective practices are vital in therapies, helping individuals come to terms with their past experiences.
Festivals and anniversaries often serve as communal occasions for the recollection of shared memories.

Memory Techniques

Journaling is a powerful recollective tool that helps individuals document and reflect on their daily experiences.
Mind mapping can enhance recollection by visually organizing thoughts and memories into a structured format.
Memory retrieval cues, such as photographs or familiar places, can facilitate recollective processes.

Origin of 'recollective'

Main points about word origin

The term 'recollective' comes from the Latin word 'recollectus', which means 'to gather again' or 'to remember'.
The prefix 're-' often suggests a return or repetition, while 'collect' hints at gathering memories.
The word reflects a deeper concept of actively retrieving memories rather than they simply being stored.

The word 'recollective' is derived from the verb 'recollect', which comes from the Latin word 'recollectus', meaning 'gathered again'. The term 'recollective' first appeared in the English language in the 18th century, with its usage becoming more common in the 19th and 20th centuries. It is often used in the context of memory and recalling past experiences.