reminisce

American  

[rem-uh-nis] / ˌrɛm əˈnɪs /

verb (used without object)

reminisced, reminiscing

1. to recall past experiences, events, etc.; indulge in reminiscence.

   Synonyms:

   muse, recollect, remember

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reminisce British  

/ ˌrɛmɪˈnɪs /

verb

1. (intr) to talk or write about old times, past experiences, etc

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Etymology

Origin of reminisce

First recorded in 1820–30; back formation from reminiscence

Explanation

Reminisce is a dreamy way of saying "remember the past." If you're swapping old stories with friends and remembering all the silly things you used to do, then you're reminiscing. Reminiscing is all about happy recollections and thinking back to stories from the past. It's hard to reminisce about the old days with someone you don't know very well or haven't known very long, since a key part of reminiscing is a shared history. But just about anyone can reminisce about going elementary school, learning to tie shoelaces, or getting that first job.

Example Sentences

Those allergic to interactive shows can decline an invitation to share the spotlight, although I imagine many would dearly love to reminisce about the time they co-starred with Harry Potter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

"Savoring can occur when we reminisce on a past experience, focus on the present moment or look ahead to a future experience."

From Science Daily • Feb. 14, 2026

He said the annual luncheon was a great chance to "reminisce" with others he's worked with over the years.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

After their win in the show-closing drama film category, the cast of “Hamnet” took to the press room to reminisce about the warm atmosphere on the set of the historical drama.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

Marcel loved to reminisce about the past. renaissance.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner

Related Words

• look back
• remind