core memory

Definition

A significant, emotionally resonant moment or experience that defines someone's personality, values, or sense of self—borrowed from the Pixar film 'Inside Out' where core memories shape a character's identity. It's something deeply formative that you'll remember forever.

Example Usage

Winning that scholarship was a core memory—it's the moment I realized I could actually achieve my dreams.

Origin

Popularized by the 2015 Pixar film 'Inside Out,' then adopted as internet slang around 2020-2022 to describe formative personal moments.

Fun Fact

Gen Z uses 'unlocking a core memory' to describe experiencing something that will stick with them for life.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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