mnemonics

American  

[ni-mon-iks] / nɪˈmɒn ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the process or technique of improving or developing the memory.

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mnemonics British  

/ nɪˈmɒnɪks /

noun

1. the art or practice of improving or of aiding the memory

2. a system of rules to aid the memory

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Etymology

Origin of mnemonics

First recorded in 1700–10; mnemonic, -ics

Example Sentences

Cognitive science shows that mnemonics help memory, distinctive voice draws attention and a sense of joy strengthens retention.

From Salon • Sep. 4, 2025

He told The Washington Post that mnemonics and word association have “nothing to do with intelligence, only memory.”

From Washington Post • Apr. 8, 2023

Before exams, he would fill a little book with colorful diagrams and mnemonics.

From New York Times • Oct. 9, 2015

Rather than constructing a complex system of mnemonics, perhaps it is possible simply to boost the strength of the memory as it is imprinted.

From The Guardian • Oct. 12, 2014

Learning notes on a staff certainly seems dull, but coming up with mnemonics for the notes on the staff can actually be fun.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin