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 bottle has been a collector's item for bourbon and racing fans over the past couple of decades. —Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026

His Television bandmate Tom Verlaine (né Miller), however, was outspoken about the commemorative nature of his own onomastic choices. —Taran Dugal, New Yorker, 4 Mar. 2026

This detailed build also includes a commemorative armored Batman minifigure and a special golden coin built right into the cockpit, which marks 20 years of Lego Batman builds. —Brittany Anas, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Feb. 2026

Each ticket includes 14 one-ounce wine pours at downtown locations, red and white wine options at every stop, a commemorative wine glass and lanyard and a treat to enjoy during the walk, organizers said. —David Sharos, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 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