oral history

noun

1
: a recording containing information about the past obtained from in-depth interviews concerning personal experiences, recollections, and reflections
also : the study of such information
2
: a written work based on oral history
oral historian noun

Examples of oral history in a Sentence

I'm reading an oral history of the Great Depression.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Here is an oral history of Steven Spielberg, as told by his many friends, rivals, and one sibling — with a brief cameo from Spielberg himself. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 10 June 2026 Anselmi collects an oral history of opposition to data centers. — Literary Hub, 25 June 2026 The festival will include oral histories, storytelling sessions, and panel discussions where surfers of all ages can connect and share treasured memories. — Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 June 2026 Some of the cast and crew of Labyrinth, released 40 years ago this June, spoke to The Guardian for an oral history of the 1986 film. — Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for oral history

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of oral history was in 1950

Rhymes for oral history

See All Rhymes for oral history

Browse Nearby Words

oral groove
oral history
oral hood
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Oral history.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oral%20history. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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