immemorial
UK: ˌɪmɪˈmɔːriəl | US: ˌɪmɪˈmɔːriəl
adj. extending back beyond memory, record, or knowledge; ancient
immemorial = im<not> + memorial<remembered>
- im (prefix): Negation, from Latin in- (not).
- memorial (root): From Latin memorialis (pertaining to memory), derived from memoria (memory).
Etymology Origin:
The word "immemorial" combines the negative prefix im- with memorial, creating a sense of time so distant that it predates recorded history. The Latin roots reflect a focus on memory (memoria) and its absence (im-), emphasizing events or traditions too ancient to be remembered. This logical pairing evolved in Middle English via Old French, preserving the original Latin structure.
The forest has stood here since time immemorial.
Customs passed down from immemorial times still shape their culture.
The land rights were claimed based on immemorial usage.
Legends speak of creatures from immemorial ages.
The practice dates back to immemorial antiquity.