long-term memory
noun
: memory that involves the storage and recall of information over a long period of time (such as days, weeks, or years)
In animal experiments and autopsies of human brains, researchers have found that the hippocampal formation—an inner-brain region consisting of the hippocampus and several other related structures—is critical for the formation of long-term memory.—Science News
—abbreviation LTM
compare short-term memory, working memory
Cite this Entry
“Long-term memory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/long-term%20memory. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.
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