memorandum noun (plural-dumsormemoranda)
Etymology: Middle English, to be remembered, from Latin, neuter of
memorandus, gerundive of memorareDate: 15th century
1. an informal record; also a written reminder 2.
an informal written note of a transaction or proposed instrument 3.a. an informal diplomatic communication b. a usually brief
communication written for interoffice circulation c. a communication
that contains directive, advisory, or informative matter
Usage: Although some commentators warn against the use of
memoranda as a singular and condemn the plural memorandas, our
evidence indicates that these forms are rarely encountered in print. We
have a little evidence of the confusion of forms, including use of
memorandum as a plural, in speech (as at congressional hearings). As
plurals memoranda and memorandums are about equally frequent.
memorandum n. (pl. memoranda or memorandums) 1 a note or record made for future use. 2 an informal written message, esp. in business, diplomacy, etc. 3 Law a document recording the terms
of a contract or other legal details. Etymology: ME f. L neut. sing. gerundive of memorare: see MEMORABLE
memorandum
(memoranda, or memorandums)
1. A memorandum is a written report that is prepared for a person or committee in order
to provide them with information about a particular matter.
The delegation submitted a memorandum to the Commons on the blatant violations of basic
human rights.N-COUNT
2. A memorandum is a short official note that is sent by one person to another within
the same company or organization. (FORMAL)
= memo
N-COUNT
memorandum
ˌmeməˈrændəm n. (pl. memoranda or memorandums) 1 a note or
record made for future use. 2 an informal written message, esp. in business,
diplomacy, etc. 3 Law a document recording the terms of a contract or other
legal details. [ME f. L neut. sing. gerundive of memorare: see MEMORABLE]
Memorandum \Mem`o*ran"dum\, n.; pl. E. Memorandums, L.
Memoranda. [L., something to be remembered, neut. of
memorandus, fut. pass. p. of memorare. See Memorable.]
1. A record of something which it is desired to remember; a
note to help the memory.
I . . . entered a memorandum in my pocketbook.
--Guardian.
I wish you would, as opportunity offers, make
memorandums of the regulations of the academies.
--Sir J.
Reynolds.
2. (Law) A brief or informal note in writing of some
transaction, or an outline of an intended instrument; an
instrument drawn up in a brief and compendious form.
Memorandum check, a check given as an acknowledgment of
indebtedness, but with the understanding that it will not
be presented at bank unless the maker fails to take it up
on the day the debt becomes due. It usually has Mem.
written on its face.
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