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

On September 8, Wonder announced a commemorative 50th anniversary arena tour for Songs in the Key of Life, scheduled for October 13 through December 19. — Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 28 Sep. 2026

The intimate setting was matched by a number of thoughtful details throughout the evening, including complimentary BonBon candy, popcorn, and commemorative showbills personally signed by Perez for attendees. — Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2026

Before kickoff on Saturday night at Hornet Stadium, Mark Orr was presented a commemorative game ball. — Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 27 Sep. 2026

Sofia and Eleanor Coppola began working on the commemorative documentary together while quarantining together during 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic, with Sofia ultimately finishing the film following her mother’s death. — Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 26 Sep. 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