Words / C1

no-STALJ-uh/nɒˈstældʒə/

Nostalgia is a sentimental longing for a past time: nostalgia for a packed hall, a nostalgia caption. Memory and longing (already in the dictionary) are everyday; a packed past is not an occupancy figure.

Meaning

A sentimental longing for a past time (from memory and longing, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “Nostalgia for a packed hall is not an occupancy figure; count the seats.”
• “Longing is already in this course. Homesickness is the close twin. Packed is a vibe. A number on a certificate is the rule. Count the seats; then keep the caption if the cap still holds.”

Good to know

Longing for the past. Everyday: longing (already in the dictionary). A packed memory ≠ a count.

Near in meaning

longing, homesickness, reminiscence

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