Short-term memory is a vital component of the human brain. It is responsible for storing and retaining information for a brief period. Synonyms for short-term memory include working memory, immediate memory, and primary memory. These terms refer to the ability of the brain to store information temporarily, allowing us to accomplish everyday tasks such as remembering a phone number or an address. Short-term memory can also be described as transient memory or fleeting memory since it only lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes. It is often used interchangeably with the term immediate memory, which highlights the urgency and importance of information that must be retained quickly.