Definition of oblivion

The word "oblivion" is derived from the Latin word "oblivisci," which means "to forget." The original Latin word was formed by combining the prefix "ob," which means "completely," and the verb "liviscere," which means "to remember." When the word was adopted into Middle English in the 14th century, it was spelled "oblausion" and meant "forgetfulness." Over time, the spelling evolved into "oblivion," and the meaning has remained consistent. The origin of the Latin word itself is less clear. Some scholars believe that "liviscere" derives from the words "leo" (meaning "lion") and "viscere" (meaning "internal organs"), in reference to the ancient Roman belief that the lion's prowess was stored in its internal organs. However, the exact etymology is debated and uncertain. Regardless of its origins, the word "oblivion" has become a widely recognized and often used English word, referring to the state of having one's memories forgotten or erased.