memorandum

noun (plural -dums or memoranda) Etymology: Middle English, to be remembered, from Latin, neuter of memorandus, gerundive of memorare Date: 15th century 1. an informal record; also a written reminder 2. an informal written note of a transaction or proposed instrument 3. a. an informal diplomatic communication b. a usually brief communication written for interoffice circulation c. a communication that contains directive, advisory, or informative matter Usage: Although some commentators warn against the use of memoranda as a singular and condemn the plural memorandas, our evidence indicates that these forms are rarely encountered in print. We have a little evidence of the confusion of forms, including use of memorandum as a plural, in speech (as at congressional hearings). As plurals memoranda and memorandums are about equally frequent.