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
The family plans to hold multiple memorial services for relatives and friends, followed by a separate public celebration for Reggie’s fans and fellow musicians, per the family’s statement. Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026 Details about a memorial service or funeral have not been released at this time. Dan Raby, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026
Noun
The memorial is located about 25 minutes from Mount Rushmore. John Lauritsen, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026 The fire memorial located behind the main stand is well worth a visit. Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for memorial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for memorial
Adjective
  • Your ticket also comes with a commemorative souvenir glass plus access to a variety of new offerings, including a petting zoo, photo booth, games and more.
    Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The parents of a 5-year-old boy who died of cancer are pleading for the return of a commemorative statue stolen from a park dedicated to his memory.
    Nikiya Carrero, CBS News, 9 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Friday provided a brief but clear reminder of what kind of headache that could be for opposing defensive coordinators.
    Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • For the Aspen Historical Society, the bridge is also a reminder of why the city exists in the first place.
    Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • After the city ceded control of Riis to the federal government, in the nineteen-seventies, the monument to public recreation was shuttered.
    Jake Offenhartz, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2026
  • The work is revealing a monument changed by time, weather and millions of visitors.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Memorial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/memorial. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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