AI Glossary

AI Termcirca 2010· Added Aug 22, 2026

Episodic Memory

A type of memory that stores specific events or experiences.

Episodic memory refers to the recollection of specific events or experiences from an agent's past. This type of memory is essential for learning and decision-making, as it allows agents to recall and adapt to similar situations. Episodic memory can be further divided into two subcategories: semantic memory, which stores factual information, and episodic memory proper, which stores personal experiences. In the context of AI, episodic memory is often implemented using techniques such as experience replay or graph-based memory architectures.

Examples

  • A chatbot recalling a user's previous conversation to provide personalized recommendations.
  • A virtual assistant remembering a user's schedule to send reminders.

Common misconceptions

  • Confusing episodic memory with semantic memory.
  • Believing that episodic memory is only relevant for human agents.

Also known as: event memory, experiential memory

Related terms

Want more like this?

Open the full library

Plain-English AI lessons, prompts and guides.