souvenir

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

Souvenir is the most common everyday word for an object bought or kept to remind you of a trip or event. Memento is more formal and can refer to any reminder of a person or occasion — a lock of hair, a pressed flower — not necessarily bought. Keepsake emphasises sentimental attachment and is often used for personal items tied to relationships (a lover's ring, a child's drawing). Token is the broadest: it includes symbolic objects (a token of gratitude) and gestures (a small gift that represents a feeling), not limited to travel. Compare: 'Theo bought a souvenir baseball cap at the stadium' (purchased on site) vs. 'She kept the ticket stub as a memento of their first date' (kept, not bought) vs. 'He gave her a bracelet as a keepsake before leaving' (sentimental value) vs. 'Please accept this small token of our appreciation' (symbolic gesture).

Common collocations

Etymology

From French souvenir, meaning 'to remember,' which comes from Latin subvenire, literally 'to come to mind' (sub- 'from below' + venire 'to come'). English adopted it as a noun in the late 1700s for an object kept as a reminder of a place or event.