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

• commemorating
• honorary
• memorial
• memorializing

Examples of commemorative in a Sentence

commemorative stamps for the stars of American popular music

Recent Examples on the Web

The Army's plans for a low-key birthday celebration of festivals, fun runs and a commemorative stamp have now been dramatically expanded to include what the White House might call a big, beautiful parade. —Susan Page, USA Today, 11 June 2025

For the Boost, Bush Hager shared the news that her late grandmother, former First Lady Barbara Bush, was being honored with a commemorative stamp. —Rachel McRady, People.com, 10 June 2025

Gatwa reflected on his departure in a commemorative video on the Doctor Who YouTube channel — which, from the looks of his costume, was probably shot on the same day as his regeneration scene. —Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 31 May 2025

There will also be live music, food trucks, an educational pollinator station and commemorative coins. —Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 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