memorize

especially British, mem·o·rise

[mem-uh-rahyz]

verb (used with object)

memorized, memorizing 

1. to commit to memory; learn by heart.

   to memorize a poem.

verb (used without object)

memorized, memorizing 

1. to learn by heart.

   I've always been able to memorize easily.

memorize

/ ˈmɛməˌraɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to commit to memory; learn so as to remember

Other Word Forms

• memorizable adjective
• memorization noun
• memorizer noun
• rememorize verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of memorize¹

First recorded in 1585–95; memor(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

In 1887, he created one of the earliest written sales primers for staff to memorize.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He just flipped open his script, tapped it with the flat of his hand, and said, “This? All this memorizing, all this work? That’s the meat and potatoes.”

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“For memorizing all the great speeches of history is of little value if one cannot find words to speak the truth of one’s own heart.”

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However, Penelope had once taken a class at Swanburne called Great Orations of Antiquity, in which she had to memorize famous speeches given by generals and politicians from days of old.

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“Three weeks ago you had a young male with multiple gunshot wounds,” the resident said, as if he’d memorized the words.

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