Definition of confabulation

The word "confabulation" originates from the Latin term "confabulari," which translates to "speak together" or "discuss." In the early 19th century, the term was adopted by the medical community to describe a neurological disorder marked by the production of false memories, which were later misinterpreted as true recall. This disorder, known as confabulation, is often associated with brain injuries or conditions that affect memory function. The word "confabulation" is also used in everyday language to refer to the act of making up or embellishing a story, especially one that is not based in fact. However, in neurology and psychology, it is a recognized medical term used to describe the effect of brain injuries or other memory disorders on a person's ability to accurately remember and recall events.