Definition of memorialnext
as in commemorative
serving to preserve the memory of a person, thing, or an event a memorial plaque on the bridge for a diver who died in the line of duty

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memorial

2 of 2

noun

as in reminder
something that serves to keep alive the memory of a person or event the Vietnam War Memorial is a starkly beautiful testimonial to the bravery of the soldiers who served in Vietnam

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of memorial
Adjective
Following his death, the university canceled classes at several campuses and held a memorial Mass on Monday. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 19 Oct. 2026 On the third day, and again on the seventh, the deceased is remembered through prayers and memorial rites. — Shushan Karapetian, The Conversation, 19 Oct. 2026
Noun
Tom Giblin, a former YMCA board member whose late daughter Rachel is honored by a memorial on the property, also asked commissioners to review the agreements and pass a resolution urging Jackson’s review. — Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 2026 The Fulchers put the memorial up on the anniversary of the flood. — Abe Streep, ProPublica, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for memorial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for memorial
Adjective
  • On Friday, Filer received a commemorative shield from SSAFA, a British charity that supports members of the armed forces and their families.
    — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Both teams wore commemorative jersey patches honoring the late NBA coach Rick Adelman, who led the Kings to eight consecutive playoff appearances from 1998 through 2006.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 24 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The Oklahoma City Thunder’s win on opening night of the new NBA season was a reminder of everything that makes the league’s 2025 champion a prime contender to win again.
    — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 29 Oct. 2026
  • For anyone carrying fresh grief, the holidays can turn a familiar carol or a string of lights into a sharp reminder of someone missing from the room.
    — Ashley Lynch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Now owned by the state of Bavaria, the ⁠Kehlsteinhaus ​was classified after the ​war as a historical monument recalling the Nazi period.
    — Reuters, NBC news, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Now owned by the state of Bavaria, the Kehlsteinhaus was classified after the war as a historical monument recalling the Nazi period.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Memorial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/memorial. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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