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 of commemorative

• commemorating
• memorial

Examples of commemorative in a Sentence

commemorative stamps for the stars of American popular music

Recent Examples on the Web

The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival has unveiled its 2026 feature lineup as well as its commemorative festival artwork designed by Brazilian creative Leandro Senna for its 20th anniversary. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 22 Dec. 2025

Soskin was invited to the White House for the 2015 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, where then-President Barack Obama presented her with a commemorative presidential coin. —Outside, 22 Dec. 2025

Then came the commemorative T-shirts and hats and the horde of reporters around Saquon Barkley as the running back reflected on the silliness of this season. —Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the American Horticultural Society is collaborating with seed and garden brand Burpee and horticultural institutions to bring commemorative seed collections straight to your garden. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Dec. 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