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

In March, King Charles and Queen Camilla sliced a commemorative cake in Cornwall—and did so with a sword. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 10 July 2026

The luncheon began with a commemorative Flag Salute, led by the Sons of the American Revolutionary Color Guard presenting the flags, including the American Flag, the Betsy Ross Flag, the Union Jack and the Sons of the American Revolution Flag. — Sharon Hlapcich, Oc Register, 9 July 2026

Season 34 Mirrorball champion Witney Carson also took to her Instagram Story to share a commemorative message. — Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 8 July 2026

The State Department says the 250th commemorative passport is only available in the standard, 28-page book. — Michele Kelemen, NPR, 8 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