by heart

Idioms  

1. Also, by rote. From memory; also, mechanically. For example, Betty had trouble learning the song by heart, but her teacher insisted on it, or Japanese schools put heavy emphasis on learning by rote. These terms are often put as. The first term was already used by Chaucer (in Troilus and Cressida). The variant, also dating from the 1300s, often implies mere memorization without deeper understanding. Both phrases remain in use, although this form of learning is no longer so widespread as it once was. Also see commit to memory.

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Example Sentences

By "heart" is meant the soul or feeling, desiring part of man.

From Within You is the Power by Hamblin, Henry Thomas

By heart here, we may understand two things.

From Works of John Bunyan — Volume 02 by Bunyan, John

It is its essence to o'ertake mankind By heart and soul, and make itself the equal,— Ay, the superior of the rest.

From Life of Lord Byron, Vol. 3 With His Letters and Journals by Moore, Thomas

It is its essence to o'ertake mankind By heart and soul, and make itself the equal— Aye, the superior of the rest.

From The Works of Lord Byron. Vol. 5 Poetry by Coleridge, Ernest Hartley

And each dear household place, let me learn all By heart, where I am wont thy form to see.

From Songs Ysame by Bacon, Albion Fellows