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memory lane

Definition of memory lane

Examples of memory lane in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'memory lane.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1903, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near memory lane

memory-hole

memory lapse

Cite this Entry

“Memory lane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/memory%20lane. Accessed 21 Aug. 2024.

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Fill in the form below and receive news in your email box, go down memory lane: definition, meaning, and origin.

The idiom "go down memory lane" means to reminisce or recall pleasant memories of the past. It is common in everyday language, mainly when people discuss their childhood, school days, old friends, or family.

In short: It means to think back on or relive happy moments from the past. It is often used sentimentally, to express nostalgia or affection for the past.

What Does "Go Down Memory Lane" Mean?

"Go down memory lane" means to think back or talk about the past, especially the happy or pleasant moments. It is often used when people want to share their memories with others or relive them in their minds.

Some crucial aspects of the idiom's meaning are:

• It is usually followed by the preposition "with" if another person is involved.
• It can be used in different tenses depending on the time frame of the action.
• It can be used in different moods depending on the attitude or intention of the speaker.
• It can be used in different voices depending on the perspective or focus of the sentence.

Where Does "Go Down Memory Lane" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "go down memory lane" can be traced back to the title of a popular song in 1924 called " Memory Lane ." The song was written by Bud de Sylva and composed by Larry Spier and Con Conrad. Several singers and bands, such as Dean Martin and Isham Jones, have sung it. The lyrics describe a nostalgic journey through the past, where the singer revisits his old love and dreams.

Here are some lines from the song:

"Come let us stroll down memory lane. Let's live those moments once again. Let's wander back to where we met, and try to banish all regret."

Historical Example

The phrase "memory lane" gradually evolved into the idiom "go down memory lane," which became more common and idiomatic over time. The idiom was first recorded in print in 1965, in a newspaper article about a reunion of World War II veterans. The article said: "They went down memory lane, recalling incidents that happened during their training days at Camp Shelby, Miss., before they went overseas."

10 Examples of "Go Down Memory Lane" in Sentences

Here are some examples of this idiom in different contexts and situations:

• Every time I hear that song, I go down memory lane and remember the first love of my life .
• She loved going down memory lane and looking at old family photos as of late .
• Let's go down memory lane and watch our wedding video together. Love ya!
• No questions asked . He didn't want to go down memory lane and discuss his painful past.
• They decided to go down memory lane and visit their old school one fine day .
• About last night , she went down memory lane and wrote a memoir about her childhood.
• It seemed like he enjoyed going down memory lane and telling stories to his grandchildren.
• Out of the blue , they went down memory lane and laughed at their silly mistakes.
• She felt blue when she went down memory lane and realized how much she missed her friends.
• He went down memory lane and felt grateful and happy for all his blessings.

Examples of "Go Down Memory Lane" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has appeared in pop culture:

• In the 1991 film "The Fisher King," directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges, there is a scene where the two main characters go to a video store and watch clips of old movies and TV shows. They "go down memory lane" and comment on their favorite actors and scenes.
• In the 2004 episode "The One with All the Other Ones" of the sitcom "Friends," which was the second part of the series finale, there is a montage of clips from previous episodes that show the memories and moments of the six friends. The episode is a tribute to the fans and a way of "going down memory lane" for the cast and crew.
• In the 2012 novel "The Casual Vacancy" by J.K. Rowling, her first adult book after the Harry Potter series, there is a character named Colin Wall, a teacher and a deputy headmaster. He often goes down memory lane and thinks about his past students and colleagues, especially his mentor, who died of cancer.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Go Down Memory Lane"

Here are some synonyms or related expressions that can be used to convey the same or similar meaning as the idiom:

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Go Down Memory Lane"

Here are some frequently asked questions about the idiom, along with their answers:

• What does "go down memory lane" mean?
• What is the origin of the phrase "go down memory lane"?

The origin of the idiom "go down memory lane" can be traced back to the title of a popular song in 1924 called "Memory Lane."

• What are some synonyms for "go down memory lane"?

There are several synonyms or related expressions that can be used to convey the same or similar meaning, such as "reminisce," "recall," "remember," "recollect," "reflect," "revisit," "relive," or "review."

• What is the difference between "go down memory lane" and "reminisce"?

Both verbs mean to think or talk about past events or experiences, especially with pleasure or nostalgia. However, "go down memory lane" is more idiomatic and metaphorical, while "reminisce" is more literal and formal.

• Is "go down memory lane" always positive?

No, sometimes it can also imply sadness or regret, especially if the memories are painful or lost.

• Can you use "go down memory lane" in a question?

Yes, you can use it in a question, either as an invitation or a request. Example: "Do you want to go down memory lane with me?"

• How do you use "go down memory lane" in a sentence?

You can use it in various contexts and situations, such as conversations, stories, speeches, or songs. It is usually followed by the preposition "with" if another person is involved. It can be used in different tenses depending on the time frame of the action. It can be used in different moods depending on the attitude or intention of the speaker. It can be used in other voices depending on the perspective or focus of the sentence.

• What are some benefits of "going down memory lane"?

It can help you appreciate and cherish the past and the people and things that were part of it. In addition, it can help you learn from your experiences and mistakes and grow as a person. Furthermore, it can help you cope with stress, loss, or change and find comfort and solace in your memories. Lastly, it can help you connect with others who share your memories and strengthen your relationships.

• What are some drawbacks of "going down memory lane"?

It can make you sad or depressed, especially if the memories are painful or lost. Additionally, it can make you feel nostalgic or regretful, especially if the past was better than the present. Moreover, it can make you lose touch with reality and neglect the present and the future. It can also isolate you from others who do not share your memories and create conflicts or misunderstandings.

• How popular is the idiom "go down memory lane" ?

It is quite popular nowadays as nostalgia is a common theme in some social media posts.

Final Thoughts About "Go Down Memory Lane"

The idiom "go down memory lane" is a common and expressive way of saying someone thinks or talks about the past, especially the happy or pleasant moments. It originated from the title of a popular song in 1924 and has been used in various forms of pop culture since then.

In summary:

• It means to reminisce or recall pleasant memories of the past.
• It is often used in a sentimental way to express nostalgia or regret.
• It can be modified by using different verbs or nouns.
• Depending on the action's time frame, attitude, and perspective, it can be used in different tenses, moods, and voices.

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• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane in English

Take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane.

• aide-mémoire
• awaken someone to something
• be engraved on someone's memory/mind idiom
• be etched on/in someone's memory idiom
• if my memory serves me right idiom
• in commemoration of someone/something
• remind someone of something/someone

Translations of take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane

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Definition of memory lane noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

memory lane

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I love traveling up and down the East Coast, and I've always wanted to see the Pacific Northwest — but I can't say I ever dreamed of visiting the states that fill out the center of the United States.

But I changed my mind once I saw pictures online of Door County, Wisconsin, during the fall. I was awestruck by images of lush trees that seemed to go on forever in vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and green.

Growing up in Virginia , I was no stranger to fall foliage, but I had never seen anything like this. I felt an immediate pull to the area and within a few weeks, my flight was booked for a late October trip .

I now see why Lonely Planet named the Midwest one of the top travel destinations for 2024.

Door County looked like something out of a Hallmark movie

On my first day in Door County, I woke up to views of Lake Michigan from my balcony at The Water Street Inn, a circa 1896 hotel that looked like it was right out of a Hallmark movie .

I kicked off the day with a ride aboard the Door County Trolley to get a closer look at the leaves I had been dreaming of for weeks. It's one thing to see that kind of beauty in a picture, but seeing it in person was surreal.

It had rained that morning, so the wet streets reflected the colors of the maple trees towering over them, with brightly colored leaves covering many of the roads in blankets of gold and orange.

In the days that followed, I spent my time strolling through diverse nature preserves and parks like The Ridges Sanctuary and Whitefish Dunes State Park.

I climbed to the top of the Cana Island Lighthouse, which is over 150 years old. I explored the picturesque downtown areas of Fish Creek and Egg Harbor, and took part in Door County's most time-honored tradition: the fish boil .

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What began as an efficient way to feed hungry fishermen a century ago has turned into an incredible way to bring the town together on a regular basis for an unpretentious, delicious meal by the fire.

The Midwestern peninsula was made special by more than quaint towns and mesmerizing scenery

During my time in Door County, I discovered more than just once-in-a-lifetime fall foliage, epic waterfronts, and charming towns .

There was a deep sense of pride among the people who lived there. I met locals who were eager to tell me they'd lived on the peninsula for their entire lives. Some had left for college or moved away as adults to see what else was out there, but came back when they didn't find a place more special than the one they grew up in.

The locals who have painstakingly preserved the area's heritage while adding to its story are the ones who've made Door County flourish, and their love is evident in every square mile from Sturgeon Bay to Fish Creek.

This trip taught me that, although there's nothing wrong with visiting top tourist destinations , the United States is teeming with beautiful towns I've not yet heard of — and many of those are worth exploring too.

I plan trips with a more open mind now because I know that no matter where I go, whether it's Bucharest or the Midwest, I'll find something worth experiencing.

Watch: A single trail takes hikers to 10 waterfalls near Portland, Oregon — and you can walk it in less than a day

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Examples of 'down memory lane' in a sentence

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