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Memento

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. An object kept as a reminder or souvenir of a person, event, or experience.
2. A keepsake or token that serves as a remembrance of a special moment or occasion.
3. Something that symbolizes a memory or marks an important event.
4. An item given as a gift or token to commemorate a particular occasion.
5. A physical object that evokes a memory or serves as a reminder of past events.

History and Origin

The word “memento” comes from the Latin memento, meaning “remember” or “a reminder,” derived from the verb memorare, which means “to remember.” The term has been used in English since the 16th century to refer to objects that serve as reminders of people, places, or events. Over time, it evolved to include not only physical objects but also symbolic representations of memories.

Mementos are deeply embedded in cultural practices, often associated with personal or shared experiences that hold sentimental value. They can be tied to travel, relationships, milestones, and commemorative events.

Detailed Explanation

A “memento” is typically an object or item that holds sentimental value, often given or kept as a reminder of a special person, place, or event. It may come in many forms, such as photographs, souvenirs, jewelry, or gifts. People often keep mementos to evoke cherished memories or to celebrate significant moments in their lives, such as anniversaries, birthdays, or trips.

Mementos can also be symbolic of personal achievements, milestones, or emotional experiences. In some cultures, mementos are passed down through generations as a way of preserving family history or connecting individuals to their heritage.

The act of keeping a memento is often associated with a desire to preserve or relive fond memories, or to maintain a connection with important life experiences.

Example Sentences

1. She kept a small shell as a memento from her trip to the beach.
2. The wedding ring he gave her was a memento of their lasting love.
3. He wore the watch his grandfather gave him as a memento of their time together.
4. The photograph was a cherished memento of their childhood days.
5. After the concert, she bought a T-shirt as a memento of the event.
6. The letter was a memento of their friendship, kept through the years.
7. They gave each guest a personalized memento to remember the special day.
8. The museum displayed mementos from various historical figures.
9. He kept a ticket stub from the movie as a memento of his first date.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Souvenir – A small item or token that serves as a reminder of a place or event.
2. Keepsake – An object kept for its sentimental value, often given as a gift.
3. Token – A symbolic item representing something meaningful or memorable.
4. Remembrance – An object or act that serves as a reminder of a person, event, or experience.
5. Memorabilia – Items collected for their connection to an event or person, often valuable or nostalgic.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Commemoration – The act of remembering or honoring a significant person or event, often through a memento.
2. Sentiment – The emotional value attached to something, often reflected in the keeping of mementos.
3. Memory – The mental process of remembering, often reinforced by physical mementos.
4. Heritage – The traditions, objects, and experiences that are passed down from generation to generation.
5. Anniversary – A yearly celebration or remembrance of a past event, often accompanied by mementos.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Souvenir – A keepsake bought or collected during travel, often as a reminder of a specific place.
2. Tribute – An expression of respect or remembrance, sometimes represented by a physical object or memento.
3. Memorial – An object or event created to honor and remember someone or something.
4. Charity gift – An item given to benefit others, sometimes serving as a memento of an act of kindness.
5. Relic – A piece of something from the past, often revered for its historical or sentimental value.

Antonyms

1. Forgetfulness
2. Neglect
3. Oblivion
4. Amnesia
5. Loss