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recuerdos

reh-KWER-dohs/reˈkweɾðos/

“recuerdos” means “memories” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

memories

Also: recollections
NounmA1
A storybook illustration of a child sitting quietly on a grassy hill, looking thoughtful. Above the child's head, a small, soft, floating image of the child laughing while flying a kite appears, symbolizing a memory.

📝 In Action

Tengo muchos buenos recuerdos de mi infancia.

A1

I have many good memories of my childhood.

Sus recuerdos de la universidad son muy vívidos.

B1

His memories of university are very vivid.

Los recuerdos malos a veces vuelven en sueños.

A2

Bad memories sometimes come back in dreams.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • vivencias (experiences)
  • memorias (memories (often written memoirs))

Common Collocations

  • guardar recuerdos – to hold/keep memories
  • despertar recuerdos – to awaken memories

souvenirs, regards

Also: keepsakes, greetings
NounmA2
Mexico/Central America
A high-quality simple colorful storybook illustration showing a collection of souvenirs on a wooden shelf, including a miniature replica of a famous landmark, a seashell, and a pressed flower.

📝 In Action

Compré unos recuerdos en la Torre Eiffel.

A2

I bought some souvenirs at the Eiffel Tower.

Dale mis recuerdos a tu hermana cuando la veas.

B1

Give my regards/greetings to your sister when you see her.

Estos recuerdos de boda son muy bonitos.

B2

These wedding favors/souvenirs are very pretty.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • mandar recuerdos – to send regards/greetings
  • regalo de recuerdo – souvenir gift

Translate to Spanish

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: recuerdos

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence uses 'recuerdos' to mean a social greeting?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
acuerdoscuerpos
📚 Etymology▼

The word *recuerdo* and its verb relative *recordar* come from the Latin word *recordari*, meaning 'to recall to mind.' It is formed by combining the prefix *re-* (again) and *cordis* (heart). This reflects an ancient belief that the heart, not the brain, was the seat of memory and feeling.

First recorded: 13th century (in Old Spanish)

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: recordarItalian: ricordare

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'recuerdos' and 'memorias'?

'Recuerdos' refers to specific events or images you recall (e.g., 'good memories of the trip'). 'Memoria' generally refers to the mental ability to remember things (e.g., 'Tengo buena memoria' - 'I have a good memory') or, less commonly, refers to historical or written accounts (memoirs).