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 children of deceased baseball legend Roberto Clemente sued Puerto Rico for issuing a commemorative license plate bearing his name and likeness. — Schuyler Moore, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026

The first 10,000 fans through the gates received commemorative bow tie pins as part of the tribute. — Hannah McIlree, CBS News, 30 July 2026

Back at the trailhead, the ladies donned their commemorative 30th annual Hen Hike baseball caps and gathered together for the ceremonial pre-hike photo. — Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 30 July 2026

Still, experts caution against buying commemorative coins with the expectation of strong investment returns. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 22 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