commemoration

[kuh-mem-uh-rey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of commemorating.

2. a service, celebration, etc., in memory of some person or event.

3. a memorial.

4. (in many Christian churches) a special service or prayer for commemorating the lesser feast on days on which two feasts of unequal rank are celebrated.

Other Word Forms

• commemorational adjective
• noncommemoration noun
• noncommemorational adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of commemoration¹

1350–1400; Middle English (< Middle French ) < Latin commemorātiōn- (stem of commemorātiō ), equivalent to commemorāt ( us ) ( commemorate ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

Still, the controversy underscores how even commemorations meant to unite Americans have become flashpoints in an era when political branding increasingly merges with national identity.

From Salon

Hegseth has banned observances of Black History Month and Women’s History Month, calling such commemorations “divisive.”

From Salon

The commemoration - the songs, the marches, the missiles, the drones, even the "robot wolves" - was not so much about China's struggle.

From BBC

Local officials in New Orleans have held commemorations this week, honoring those who lost their lives and acknowledging the city’s recovery.

From Salon

In recent years, the government had started to include commemorations for Serb victims.

From BBC

Related Words

• celebration 
• ceremony 
• remembrance 
• tribute