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

Designed to be worn as a brooch, it is housed in black-and-bronze packaging featuring a metallic shield emblem, commemorative plaque and the replica pin. — Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

In either case, a new commemorative work generally begins with an act of Congress. — Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 19 July 2026

Survivors will be recognized, and a commemorative slideshow of archival photographs and a traveling exhibit curated by the Wyandotte County Historical Museum will help younger generations learn about the disaster and the community’s enduring legacy. — Michelle Oliva-Espinosa, Kansas City Star, 18 July 2026

The Hoosiers won a national football championship this year, and shops were displaying commemorative IU mugs and sweatshirts. — Laurent Belsie, Christian Science Monitor, 18 July 2026

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