temporary memory

[/ˈtɛmpərɛri ˈmɛməri/]
nounpl: temporary memories
memória temporária
1. A type of memory that stores information for a short duration, typically seconds to minutes, before being forgotten or transferred to long-term storage
The temporary memory allows you to remember a phone number just long enough to dial it.
A memória temporária permite que você se lembre de um número de telefone apenas o tempo suficiente para discá-lo.
2. In computing, a storage system that holds data during active use but loses it when the system is powered off or the session ends
The application uses temporary memory to cache frequently accessed data.
O aplicativo usa memória temporária para armazenar em cache dados acessados com frequência.
3. In psychology and neuroscience, the cognitive capacity to briefly hold information in consciousness
Temporary memory, also known as working memory, is essential for problem-solving.
A memória temporária, também conhecida como memória operacional, é essencial para resolver problemas.
In Brazil, the term 'memória temporária' is widely used in both educational psychology and technology sectors. American tech culture frequently uses 'working memory' as a synonym. The concept gained prominence with neuroscience research and is now commonly referenced in discussions about attention, learning, and digital storage. In Portugal, technical terminology leans more toward 'memória volátil' when discussing computer systems.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
working memoryshort-term memoryvolatile memorycache memory
Antonyms / Antônimos
long-term memorypermanent memorypersistent storage

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
memória temporária
Most common usage in Brazil for both psychological and technical contexts
São Paulo
memória de curto prazo
Alternative term used in academic and technical contexts
Portugal
memória volátil / memória temporária
Portuguese tends to use 'volátil' more frequently in computing contexts
Computing Industry (Brazil)
memória temporária / cache
Technical professionals often use English term or 'cache' interchangeably

Related Words

RAMcacheworking memoryretentioncognitive loadmemory capacity

Related Idioms & Phrases

out of sight, out of mind
slipped my mind
in one ear and out the other
fleeting thought
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