oral history

American  

noun

1. information of historical or sociological importance obtained usually by tape-recorded interviews with persons whose experiences and memories are representative or whose lives have been of special significance.

2. a book, article, recording, or transcription of such information.

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oral history British  

noun

1. the memories of living people about events or social conditions which they experienced in their earlier lives taped and preserved as historical evidence

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Other Word Forms

• oral historian
  noun

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Etymology

Origin of oral history

First recorded in 1970–75

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

oral history

“The difference between success and failure rests on who is running the show,” he said in an oral history recorded by the Computer History Museum.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2026

“One might look at an org chart and underestimate her role and influence,” Warsh said in a 2020 oral history, recalling the predawn calls they shared with Bernanke at the height of the 2008-09 crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 15, 2026

According to oral history passed down over the generations, Santseo was planted in the 13th Century by Komfo Nana Asumbia, a royal figure to whom we trace our lineage.

From BBC ● May 2, 2026

With a gallery space split between a dance studio and a film editing room, the exhibition weaves elements of choreography, documentary, oral history and ritual.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 1, 2026

I need Grandpa to get better so he can come home and help me finish my oral history project.

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh

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