meaning of core memory

A concept, popularized by the 2015 Pixar film "Inside Out," referring to a foundational and often emotionally charged memory that is believed to significantly shape an individual's personality, identity, or emotional responses. These memories are typically depicted as pivotal moments that contribute to one's core self.

That trip to the Grand Canyon as a child was a core memory for her, shaping her love for nature.

The movie 'Inside Out' introduced the idea of core memories as glowing orbs that power a person's personality islands.

Even though the term 'core memory' isn't strictly scientific, it captures the essence of how certain experiences profoundly affect us.

Synonyms: foundational memory, pivotal memory, formative memory, defining memory, key memory

Antonyms: trivial memory, fleeting memory, insignificant memory

Etymology: The term 'core memory' gained widespread recognition and its current popular meaning from the 2015 Pixar animated film "Inside Out," which visually represented these memories as central to a character's emotional and psychological development. While the concept aligns with psychological ideas about the impact of significant life events on identity, the specific term and its popular understanding are largely a product of this cultural phenomenon.

Cultural Notes: The concept of 'core memory' is deeply embedded in popular culture due to the immense success and influence of the film "Inside Out." The movie's depiction of these memories as essential building blocks of personality resonated widely, leading to the term's common use in everyday language to describe highly significant or emotionally impactful personal experiences, even outside of a strict psychological context. While the film's representation is a simplified model, it effectively communicates the idea that certain memories hold extraordinary weight in shaping who we are.

Word Frequency: common

Category: culture

Language: English

Pronunciation: ˈkɔːr ˈmɛməri