photographic memory

American  

[foh-tuh-graf-ik mem-ree, mem-uh-ree] / ˈfoʊ təˌgræf ɪk ˈmɛm ri, ˈmɛm ə ri /

noun

photographic memories plural

1. the exceptional ability to recall information with very high accuracy or vivid detail, especially visual or spatial details.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• photographic-memory
  adjective

Inflected Forms

noun

• photographic memories
  plural

Example Sentences

He also had a photographic memory, which came in very useful for his later detective work around the thefts.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

With the aural equivalent of a photographic memory, she advised financial companies on regulatory and public-policy issues.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Jaylen Wells doesn’t have a photographic memory – but certain things he can’t help but remember.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 16, 2023

TJ: She was the keeper, a real photographic memory.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 29, 2023

Before long he discovered he had a photographic memory.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French