Definition of: memory

(mem′ər·ē) noun plural ·ries
1. The mental process or faculty of representing in consciousness an act, experience, or impression, with recognition that it belongs to time past.
2. The experiences of the mind taken in the aggregate, and considered as influencing present and future behavior.
3. The accuracy and ease with which a person can retain and recall past experiences.
4. That which is remembered, as an act, event, person, or thing.
5. The period of time covered by the faculty of remembrance: beyond the memory of man.
6. The state of being remembered; posthumous reputation: The memory of Washington will endure.
7. That which reminds; a memorial; a memento.
8. The information storage unit of a computer. [<OF memorie <L memoria <memor mindful. Doublet of MEMOIR.] Synonyms: recollection, remembrance, reminiscence, retrospect, retrospection. Memory is the faculty by which knowledge is retained or recalled; memory is a retention of knowledge within the grasp of the mind, while remembrance is the having what is known consciously before the mind. Either may be voluntary or involuntary. Recollection involves volition, the mind making a distinct effort to recall something, or fixing the attention actively upon it when recalled. Reminiscence is a half–dreamy memory of scenes or events long past; retrospection is a distinct turning of the mind back upon the past, bringing long periods under survey. Antonyms: forgetfulness, oblivion, obliviousness.