Definition of reminiscence

The word "reminiscence" originated in the late 18th century from the French verb "réminiscencer," which meant "to remind" or "to call to mind again." The French word was formed by combining "re-," a prefix meaning "again" or "back," with "mnémosyne," the Greek goddess of memory. In Greek mythology, Mnemosyne was also known as the mother of the Muses, the nine goddesses associated with various aspects of artistic inspiration and intellectual pursuits. Her name derives from the Greek words "mnēme" (μνήμη), meaning "memory," and "syn" (σύν), meaning "together" or "with." The French term "réminiscencer" entered English in the late 18th century, often spelled as "rememiscence." Over time, its meaning evolved from "calling to mind again" to refer specifically to the subjective experience of remembering or thinking back on past events, feelings, or experiences. Today, the word "reminiscence" is commonly used in psychology, literature, and everyday conversation to describe the process by which we recall and reflect on our past.