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 seven years following his death have seen a wake of commemorative projects including a 2019 posthumous album, a biography, a photo book, a new track released in May and the Avicii Experience museum in the artist’s hometown of Stockholm. —Katie Bain, Billboard, 6 Nov. 2025

Enjoy pours from top wineries, gourmet bites and receive a commemorative glass. —Caroline Ritzie, Cincinnati Enquirer, 5 Nov. 2025

Three locations will offer free commemorative posters that can be stamped with your finish time. —Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 29 Oct. 2025

Ask any Hoosier friend for one of their several commemorative race day hats. —Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 29 Oct. 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