memoir

[ mem-wahr, -wawr ]

noun

1. a record of events written by a person having intimate knowledge of them and based on personal observation.
2. Usually memoirs.
   1. an account of one's personal life and experiences; autobiography.
   2. the published record of the proceedings of a group or organization, as of a learned society.
3. a biography or biographical sketch.

memoir

/ ˈmɛmwɑː /

noun

1. a biography or historical account, esp one based on personal knowledge
2. an essay or monograph, as on a specialized topic
3. obsolete.
   a memorandum

Derived Forms

• ˈmemoirist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of memoir¹

First recorded in 1560–70; from French mémoire, from Latin memoria; memory

Word History and Origins

Origin of memoir¹

C16: from French, from Latin memoria memory

Example Sentences

Former President Bill Clinton is ready to share his thoughts about his 1998 affair with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky in his new memoir "Citizen."

From Salon

Melvin is also the author of “Pops,” a memoir about his relationship with his father who overcame addictions to alcohol and gambling.

From Los Angeles Times

In his new memoir, Boy from the Valleys: My Unexpected Journey, Evans describes how he was bullied at school because of his religion and sexuality and had a "horrible time".

From BBC

He said it took him months to decide whether to write his memoir, but decided he wanted to help other people who may be able to relate to a journey like his.

From BBC

A Times editor met with actor John Stamos to prepare a Greek dish at his home, where they discussed their similar backgrounds and his new memoir, ‘If You Would Have Told Me.’

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• account
• anecdote
• autobiography
• biography
• chronicle
• diary
• essay
• journal
• life
• life story
• memory
• narrative
• note
• recollection
• reminiscence
• thesis
• treatise