What does memorandum mean?
A memorandum is a written note, communication, or record used to convey information, especially in formal institutional settings. It may circulate an announcement, summarize a decision or legal issue, or document the terms of an agreement. In business and legal writing, a memorandum often has a clearly defined audience and purpose, such as a memorandum to staff, an internal memorandum, or a memorandum of understanding between organizations. The word carries a formal, professional tone, while the abbreviated form “memo” is much more common in everyday office life. Although a memorandum can simply be a note, it generally suggests a more deliberate or official document than an informal message. Its plural is conventionally “memoranda,” reflecting its Latin origin, while “memorandums” is also used in modern English.
nounA written communication or record, especially an official note exchanged between people or organizations. In legal and business contexts, it may also refer to a document summarizing an agreement, decision, or legal issue.
- A written communication, especially an official note or message.
- A document recording a decision, transaction, or legal issue.
- A formal document expressing the terms of an agreement or understanding.
"The committee issued a memorandum outlining the changes to the policy."
"Staff received a memorandum announcing the revised office hours."
"The lawyers circulated a memorandum summarizing the terms of the settlement."
"The two departments signed a memorandum of understanding to coordinate their work."
“Memoranda” is the traditional and preferred plural in formal usage. “Memorandums” is also accepted in modern English, particularly in general business writing.
"The team prepared several memoranda for circulation to staff."
The word literally means “something to be remembered”: it comes from a Latin form built on memorare, “to remember.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does memorandum come from?
The English word comes from Latin memorandum, the neuter singular of memorandus, meaning “to be remembered” or “that is to be remembered.” The underlying root is memorare, “to remember,” which also gives English words such as memory, memorial, memorable, and memorize. The term entered English in the late medieval period and was later used for official notes, legal documents, and records.
Related word forms
How memorandum is actually used
Memorandum is formal and is especially common in legal, governmental, institutional, and business contexts. In everyday communication, “memo” is more usual. The plural is normally “memoranda,” although “memorandums” is also accepted, especially in general or business usage.
Easily confused with memorandum
A memorandum is a written note or communication, whereas a memorial is a monument, ceremony, or commemorative object intended to preserve the memory of someone or something.