commemorate

IPA

Dictionary definition of commemorate

O honor, remember, or celebrate an important event, person, or occasion.
"The memorial serves to commemorate the victims of a tragic natural disaster."

Detailed meaning of commemorate

It involves paying tribute or expressing respect and gratitude for something significant that has occurred or for individuals who have made a notable impact. Commemoration often entails the creation of memorials, organizing ceremonies, or engaging in rituals and traditions that serve as reminders of historical events, achievements, sacrifices, or milestones. It serves as a way to preserve collective memory, instill a sense of identity and pride, and ensure that the significance of past events or individuals is not forgotten by future generations. Through commemoration, we acknowledge the importance of these moments in shaping our lives, societies, and shared history.

Example sentences containing commemorate

1. We gather today to commemorate the fallen soldiers.
2. The statue was erected to commemorate the city's founders.
3. Every year, we commemorate the anniversary of our independence.
4. The memorial event aims to commemorate the victims of the tragedy.
5. The museum hosts an exhibition to commemorate the artist's life and work.
6. The ceremony will commemorate the end of a historic era.

History and etymology of commemorate

The verb 'commemorate' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'commemorare,' which combines 'com,' meaning 'together,' and 'memorare,' meaning 'to remember' or 'to mention.' In its Latin form, 'commemorare' emphasized the act of remembering or mentioning something together, often in a collective or public manner. As the term made its way into English, 'commemorate' retained its core meaning of honoring, remembering, or celebrating an important event, person, or occasion in a collective or public way. The etymology of 'commemorate' underscores its role in preserving and acknowledging significant moments in history or the lives of individuals, emphasizing the communal aspect of remembering and celebrating such events or figures.

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Further usage examples of commemorate

1. The plaque was placed on the building to commemorate its historical significance.
2. The community comes together to commemorate the achievements of their ancestors.
3. The concert will commemorate the legacy of the renowned composer.
4. We light candles to commemorate those who have passed away.
5. The school organizes a special assembly to commemorate a famous alumni.
6. The holiday was established to commemorate a significant historical event.
7. A monument stands tall to commemorate the heroes of the war.
8. The exhibition features photographs to commemorate a memorable event.
9. The book was written to commemorate a beloved leader's contributions.
10. The ceremony aims to commemorate the victims of a natural disaster.
11. The artwork was commissioned to commemorate an important milestone.
12. We gather at the cemetery to commemorate our loved ones on Memorial Day.
13. The city council passes a resolution to commemorate a local hero.
14. The museum curator arranges a special exhibit to commemorate a famous artist.