Reminiscent: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something or someone brings back memories or reminds you of something from the past.

• The old house was reminiscent of my grandmother's home
• His voice is reminiscent of an old friend I used to know

Used to describe something that brings strong images, memories or feelings to mind, often in a vivid or moving way.

• The painting is evocative of a distant summer
• Her music is evocative and stirs deep emotions

Used to convey a sentimental longing or affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.

• Seeing those old photos made me feel nostalgic about my childhood
• Listening to that song makes me feel nostalgic for my college days

Often used in literary contexts to describe something that strongly reminds one of something else through smell or evokes a particular atmosphere or memory. It can carry a poetic or sophisticated tone.

• The garden was redolent with the scent of roses
• The atmosphere was redolent of the 1920s

Used to imply that something elicits memories or ideas, often in a more subtle or indirect way. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if it implies sexual innuendo or improper implications.

• Her comments were suggestive of a hidden agenda
• The lyrics of the song are suggestive of lost love
• Be cautious, as saying 'suggestive' might imply something inappropriate in certain contexts