# memoirs

/ˈmɛmˌwɑɹz/ (US) · /mˈɛmwɑːz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/memoirs
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. an autobiography

noun · CEFR B2

a book written by a person about their own life, usually focusing on their personal memories and feelings.

For teachers: a narrative account of a person's life or a specific period of it, written by that person. Often used in the plural form even when referring to a single work.

- The retired politician spent three years writing his memoirs about his time in office.
- After decades of silence, the former diplomat finally published her memoirs, providing a rare glimpse into the secret negotiations of the late twentieth century.

Usage: Usually plural in form even when referring to a single published volume.

## Examples

- The retired president is busy writing his memoirs.
- After decades in the film industry, the actress published her memoirs to share stories from behind the scenes.
- Her memoirs provide a vivid, first-hand account of the political upheaval that defined the late twentieth century, offering insights that official histories often overlook.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.