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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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
  • Jostens’ design for the 2025 WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces featured a smaller, removable ring for everyday wear that could be magnetically detached from the bulbous commemorative ring.
    — Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 20 Oct. 2026
  • There will also be a series of commemorative elements at MSG honoring the Knicks and fans who witnessed it.
    — Otis Livingston, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Those words are a powerful reminder that people can be struggling even when those around them see no signs.
    — Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026
  • But Wednesday night was a reminder none of this happens overnight.
    — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 22 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Memorial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/memorial. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster