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

Public works crews initially covered the commemorative statue and massive 100-foot mural dedicated to Chavez and the farmworker movement on Thursday. —Luzdelia Caballero, CBS News, 20 Mar. 2026

Some of the commemorative coins sell for thousands of dollars. —Benjamin Siegel, ABC News, 19 Mar. 2026

Celebrations have reportedly also been canceled across multiple cities in Texas, as well as a commemorative dinner in Michigan. —Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 18 Mar. 2026

The revelations also put California school districts — already gearing up for annual commemorative recognitions of Chavez and his contributions — in a difficult position. —Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 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