memento mori
Say it: muh-MEN-toh MOR-ee /məˌmɛntəʊ ˈmɔːri/ · noun phrase
What “memento mori” means
A reminder that life will end, so make it count.
More precisely: A reminder that you will die, used to inspire living fully.
Example: “He keeps a small skull on his desk as a memento mori.”
When to use it
Use it for an object or thought that reminds you life is finite. It sounds reflective, often in art or philosophy.
Memory trick
Latin for “remember that you must die”: a reminder to value life.
Similar words
reminder of death, vanitas
Where it comes from
Latin, 'remember that you must die'.
Quick check
A painter adds an hourglass to a portrait to remind viewers that their lives will eventually end. It serves as…
a memento mori or a good luck charm?
Show the answer
a memento mori
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