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Where does the word "memorandum" come from? It comes from Latin memorandum, and was adopted directly into English (1400s).
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Where does the word "memorandum" come from? It comes from Latin memorandum, and was adopted directly into English (1400s).
Memorandum’s story begins in Latin: memorandum meant “to be remembered.” From 'memorare', to bring to mind. It reached English by 1400s as memorandum. Written at the top of notes; shortened to 'memo' in the 1700s. Today, memorandum means a written message in business or diplomacy.
- Stage 1 · Latin · ancient memorandum "to be remembered", from 'memorare', to bring to mind.
- Stage 2 · English · 1400s memorandum "a written note", written at the top of notes; shortened to 'memo' in the 1700s.