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

President Biden has signed a bill designating the Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida, a commemorative site and part of the African American Civil Rights Network. —Russell Contreras, Axios, 6 Jan. 2025

In 2017, proceeds from the sole official piece of merchandise Trump’s inaugural committee sold—a $50 commemorative license plate—were directed to the 58th Presidential Inaugural Committee, according to an archived snapshot of the event’s website on archive.org. —Zach Everson, Forbes, 5 Jan. 2025

The commemorative week later became a month under President George H.W. Bush in 1992. —Kimmy Yam, NBC News, 30 Dec. 2024

The King Center in Atlanta will have a commemorative service that morning, which will be streamed live. —Russell Contreras, Axios, 20 Dec. 2024

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