Eidetic memory (/aɪˈdɛtɪk/) or photographic memory is an ability to vividly recall images from memory after only a few instances of exposure, with high precision for some time after exposure,[1] without using mnemonics.[2] Although the terms eidetic memory and photographic memory may be used interchangeably,[1] they are also distinguished, with eidetic memory referring to the ability to view memories like photographs, and photographic memory referring to the ability to recall page or text numbers, or similar, in great detail.[3][4] In the case of distinguishing the concepts, eidetic memory has been documented while photographic memory is a popular culture myth that has never been demonstrated to exist.[4][5]
Eidetic images occur in a small number of children and generally are not found in adults.[2][6] The word eidetic comes from the Greek word εἶδος (pronounced [êːdos], eidos, "seen").[7]
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