memory stick: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to informal in everyday computing contexts; semi-technical in consumer electronics.
Quick answer
What does “memory stick” mean?
A small, portable flash memory storage device that connects to a computer via a USB port, used for storing and transferring digital data.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, portable flash memory storage device that connects to a computer via a USB port, used for storing and transferring digital data.
In broader, sometimes informal contexts, can refer to any removable flash memory card or storage module, though this is less precise. The term is also used as a proprietary brand name for certain Sony storage media.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Used in both varieties. 'USB flash drive' or simply 'flash drive' is somewhat more common in American English, while 'memory stick' is very common in British English. 'USB stick' is a frequent neutral alternative in both.
Connotations
In British English, it's the default, casual term. In American English, it might be perceived as slightly less technical or more brand-associated (with Sony).
Frequency
High frequency in UK everyday speech; medium-high in US, but faces competition from 'flash drive'.
Grammar
How to Use “memory stick” in a Sentence
transfer X from computer to memory stickdownload Y onto memory stickstore X on memory stickplug in memory stickformat memory stickVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “memory stick” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- I'll bring the presentation on a memory stick.
- Have you seen my little blue memory stick?
- This memory stick is formatted for Windows.
American English
- The files are saved on my memory stick.
- He handed me a memory stick with the backup.
- Memory stick prices have fallen dramatically.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Common for transferring presentations, documents, or for secure, offline storage of sensitive files.
Academic
Used by students and researchers to share papers, datasets, or project work.
Everyday
The most common context: sharing photos, music, personal documents between devices and people.
Technical
Less precise in IT; professionals prefer 'USB flash drive' or specify protocol (USB 3.2) and capacity.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “memory stick”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “memory stick”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “memory stick”
- Using 'memory stick' to refer to RAM modules inside a computer (these are 'memory cards' or 'RAM sticks').
- Saying 'a memory stick of 500GB' – better: 'a 500GB memory stick'.
- Confusing it with Sony's Memory Stick PRO Duo, which is for specific devices like older cameras.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In everyday usage, yes, they are used interchangeably. Technically, 'USB flash drive' is the more accurate generic term, as 'Memory Stick' is also a Sony trademark for a different type of flash memory card.
In formal or technical writing, 'USB flash drive' is preferred for clarity. 'Memory stick' is acceptable in informal reports, emails, or general communication.
British English heavily favours 'memory stick'. American English uses 'flash drive' or 'USB drive' just as often, if not more. Both will understand 'memory stick'.
Primarily, yes. However, due to Sony's branding, it can also cause ambiguity with their proprietary 'Memory Stick' cards used in older cameras and PlayStation Portables. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
A small, portable flash memory storage device that connects to a computer via a USB port, used for storing and transferring digital data.
Memory stick: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmeməri stɪk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmeməri stɪk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's on the memory stick”
- “carry your world on a memory stick”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a STICK of chewing gum you can put in your pocket – a MEMORY STICK is a small stick that holds your computer's memories (files).
Conceptual Metaphor
MEMORY IS A PHYSICAL CONTAINER (files are *stored*, memory has *capacity*, you *put* things on it).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST technical synonym for 'memory stick'?