Memorabilia Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌmɛmərəˈbɪliə/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

Items kept, displayed, or collected to preserve the memory of a person, place, event, or experience.

Examples

• The sports memorabilia on the wall included autographs from famous athletes.
• She cherished the memorabilia from her trip to Europe, which included postcards and souvenirs.

Synonyms

• Keepsake
• Memento

Antonyms

• Dispose
• Discard

Additional Information

Memorabilia can be items such as photographs, clothing, sports equipment, or other personal belongings associated with a person or event. These items are often kept in a special place, such as a scrapbook or display case, to serve as a reminder of the past.

Many people collect memorabilia from concerts, movies, or sports events, featuring items like autographed posters, programs, or equipment. Memorabilia can also be treasured family heirlooms, passed down through generations.

Historical events and places can also be commemorated with memorabilia. Museums often feature exhibits with artifacts, documents, and other memorabilia to educate visitors about significant events in history.

Etymology

From Latin memoria (memory) and the suffix -bilia (indicating a collection or set of things), memorabilia originated in the 16th century as a term for objects or mementos kept to preserve memories.

Usage Notes

Memorabilia can be used to describe a wide range of items, from personal keepsakes to public exhibits. It is often used in the context of collecting or preserving memories.

Cultural References

Memorabilia has been referenced in popular culture, such as in movies and TV shows, to describe items collected by characters or featured in exhibits.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “A piece of memorabilia” – a single item kept or collected to preserve a memory.

Related Words or Phrases

• Heirloom
• Relic

Collocations

• “collect memorabilia”
• “display memorabilia”

Frequency of Use

Memorabilia is a moderately common word, often used in formal or written contexts.