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To memorize something so thoroughly that it can be repeated from memory without any external aid.
She could recite the entire alphabet by heart when she was only four years old.
She had memorized the entire alphabet perfectly at a very young age.
The actor had to recite Shakespeare's soliloquies by heart for the role.
The actor had to memorize Shakespeare's speeches completely for the performance.
Commonly used in educational contexts, such as learning poetry, speeches, or religious texts. Often implies a high level of memorization.
Do not confuse 'by heart' with the physical organ. It is an idiomatic expression meaning 'from memory' or 'thoroughly memorized'.
Only use 'recite by heart' when the memorization is complete and the recitation is accurate without any aid.
The phrase combines 'recite' (from Latin 'recitare', meaning 'to read aloud') with 'by heart' (from Old English 'heorte', referring to the seat of emotions and memory). The phrase emerged in Middle English, emphasizing the idea that memorization is deeply embedded in one's being.
This phrase is often used in formal or educational settings. It implies not just casual memorization but a thorough, often long-term retention of information. Avoid using it in contexts where the memorization is temporary or superficial.