memory card: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
HighTechnical, Consumer Electronics, Everyday (in contexts of photography/tech)
Quick answer
What does “memory card” mean?
A small, removable, solid-state electronic data storage device used primarily in digital cameras, smartphones, and other portable devices.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, removable, solid-state electronic data storage device used primarily in digital cameras, smartphones, and other portable devices.
A physical medium for storing digital information, often characterized by its capacity, speed, and format, enabling the transfer of files between devices.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The term is standard in both varieties.
Connotations
Identical technical/consumer product connotations.
Frequency
Equally frequent in tech and consumer contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “memory card” in a Sentence
[device] takes/uses/accepts a memory card[user] inserts/removes/formats a memory cardthe memory card [holds/stores/contains] [data]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “memory card” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- memory-card storage
- memory-card data recovery
American English
- memory-card slot
- memory-card reader
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to hardware specifications, accessory sales, or device compatibility.
Academic
Used in computer science, electronics, or digital media studies regarding data storage technologies.
Everyday
Common when discussing photos, videos, phone storage, or transferring files from cameras/consoles.
Technical
Specifying interface (USB, SDIO), speed class (UHS, V90), capacity, or filesystem format.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “memory card”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “memory card”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “memory card”
- Using 'memory card' to refer to a USB flash drive (stick). Saying 'memory' alone when meaning the physical card (e.g., 'I need a new memory' vs. 'I need a new memory card').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A memory card stores user data like photos and files. A SIM card identifies a subscriber to a mobile network and stores phonebook contacts and network information.
Formatting prepares the card for use by a specific device, creating a new filesystem. It erases all existing data on the card.
Yes, if your laptop has a compatible slot (e.g., SD card reader) or you use an external card reader. The card acts as portable storage.
Different types offer varying physical sizes, speeds, capacities, and durability for specific devices, from drones to professional video cameras.
A small, removable, solid-state electronic data storage device used primarily in digital cameras, smartphones, and other portable devices.
Memory card is usually technical, consumer electronics, everyday (in contexts of photography/tech) in register.
Memory card: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmem.ər.i ˌkɑːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmem.ɚ.i ˌkɑːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “run out of memory card space”
- “a memory card full of memories”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'library card' that grants access to books. A MEMORY CARD grants your device access to stored digital 'memories' like photos.
Conceptual Metaphor
STORAGE IS A PHYSICAL CONTAINER (e.g., 'The card holds 128GB.'); DATA IS A FLUID (e.g., 'Transfer the files onto the card.').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT a typical function of a memory card?