What does memorize mean?
To memorize is to learn information and retain it in memory so that it can be recalled without notes, repetition, or other prompts. People memorize poems, vocabulary, facts, historical dates, instructions, and lines for performances. The word is especially common in education and exam preparation, where it describes a deliberate effort to store information accurately. Memorizing can be useful for recognizing important details or reproducing material precisely, although it does not always mean that the learner understands the material in depth. In everyday use, “memorize” is often interchangeable with “learn by heart” and “commit to memory,” while “remember” is broader and may describe retaining information without suggesting deliberate repetition. The standard American spelling uses “-ize,” while British English traditionally favors “-ise,” with no difference in meaning or pronunciation.
verbTo learn something so thoroughly that it can be recalled without consulting notes or other prompts. It also means to retain information in the memory for later use.
- To learn something so that it can be recalled from memory without looking it up or being prompted.
"She memorized the poem and recited it from memory at the ceremony."
"He memorized the important dates before the history exam."
"Actors need to memorize their lines, but they also need to understand the characters they are playing."
The word “memorize” comes from the same root as “memory”: Latin memor means “mindful” or “remembering.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does memorize come from?
The word “memorize” derives from Latin memorare, meaning “to bring to mind” or “to remember,” which is related to Latin memor, meaning “mindful” or “remembering.” English borrowed the base with the suffix “-ize,” forming a verb meaning to learn or retain by heart. Its cognates include “memory,” “memorial,” and “memorialize,” all of which share the Latin root concerned with remembrance.
Related word forms
How memorize is actually used
The verb is common in educational and practical contexts. In British English, “memorise” is the standard spelling, while “memorize” is used in American English and also accepted in formal British usage. The word can suggest deliberate learning by heart, but it does not necessarily imply deep understanding.
Easily confused with memorize
To memorize is to learn something and retain it in memory, whereas to memorialize is to commemorate someone or something, often through a public tribute or monument.