commemorative

adjective

com·​mem·​o·​ra·​tive kə-ˈmem-rə-tiv 

-ˈme-mə-;

-ˈme-mə-ˌrā-tiv

: intended as a commemoration

especially : issued in limited quantities for a limited time to honor or feature someone or something

a commemorative stamp

commemorative noun

commemoratively adverb

Synonyms

• commemorating
• honorary
• memorial
• memorializing

Examples of commemorative in a Sentence

commemorative stamps for the stars of American popular music

Recent Examples on the Web

Back on the ground, some visitors complained that a commemorative coin for opening day was sold out already. —Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 May 2025

In addition to the two-tone commemorative edition, Longines introduces two commemorative models in stainless steel with 39 mm and 42 mm case sizes. —Bhanu Chopra, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025

How to Buy the 2025 Anniversary Stamps All 2025 commemorative designs, including the Armed Forces and battlefields stamps, are available for purchase online, by phone, mail, or at post office locations. —Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025

There will also be live music, food trucks, an educational pollinator station and commemorative coins. —Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

commemorative

adjective

com·​mem·​o·​ra·​tive kə-ˈmem-ə-rət-iv 

-ˌrāt-

: intended to commemorate a person, thing, or event

a commemorative postage stamp

commemorative noun