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 commemorative program will have guest performers, including renowned jazz saxophonist Juli Wood, vocalist Robin Pluer, vocalist Dorothy Jackson, and singer/pianist David Nunley. —Cathy Kozlowicz, jsonline.com, 8 Jan. 2026

Here’s more on the commemorative holiday. —Emery Glover, Des Moines Register, 6 Jan. 2026

Nine states are currently offering commemorative plates to honor America 250. —Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 5 Jan. 2026

In 1982, the state of Texas officially declared the Thompson home/stage stop a historical site and installed a commemorative marker. —Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 Jan. 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