reminiscent
UK: ˌremɪˈnɪsnt | US: ˌrɛməˈnɪsənt
adj. tending to remind one of something; evocative
adj. having characteristics of remembering or recalling past experiences
reminiscent = re<again> + minis<mind> + cent<adjective suffix>
- re: Latin prefix meaning "again" or "back," indicating repetition or return.
- minis: Derived from Latin minisci (variant of meminisse, "to remember"), rooted in mens ("mind").
- cent: Adjective-forming suffix from Latin -entem, denoting a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word "reminiscent" traces back to Latin reminiscentem ("remembering"), combining re- (suggesting recurrence) with minisci (to recall). It evolved through French reminiscent before entering English in the 17th century. The morpheme minis reflects the core idea of "mind," while -cent transforms the verb into an adjective, capturing the act of remembering. The term originally described vivid mental recall, later broadening to describe anything that triggers memory.
The old photograph was reminiscent of her childhood summers.
His painting style is reminiscent of Van Gogh’s bold brushstrokes.
The melody is reminiscent of a lullaby her mother used to sing.
The abandoned house had a scent reminiscent of dried roses.
His speech was reminiscent of wartime propaganda.