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
• memorial

Examples of commemorative in a Sentence

commemorative stamps for the stars of American popular music

Recent Examples on the Web

Attendees can enjoy German food and drink tastings from over 10 Twain Harte restaurants and businesses, a 5-ounce tasting mug, a commemorative lanyard, a Stein holding competition and a yodeling and costume contest. —Marcus Smith, Sacbee.com, 3 Oct. 2025

To purchase beer, commemorative mugs ($4 for 16-ounce or $6 for 32-ounce) and tokens ($8; one token for 16-ounce fill, two for 32-ounce) will be available on site. —Dan Kelly, Kansas City Star, 25 Sep. 2025

Typically, a commemorative coin is used to memorialize historical figures, institutions or anniversaries. —Laura Gersony, AZCentral.com, 25 Sep. 2025

Prominent historical figures, such as the Founding Fathers and past presidents, appear on various denominations of United States currency, and a select number of commemorative coins have been issued over the years. —Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 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