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Commemoration: meaning, definitions and examples

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commemoration

 

[ˌkɒməˈmɒreɪʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in memory of

The action of recalling or recognizing someone or something, typically in a ceremony or ritual. It is a way to honor and remember a person, event, or achievement.

Synonyms

observance, remembrance, tribute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
commemoration

Used for events or ceremonies that mark an important date or honor a significant event or person. Often formal and planned in advance.

  • The annual commemoration of Independence Day is always a grand event.
  • A special mass was held for the commemoration of the city's founding.
remembrance

Used when honoring or recalling the memory of a person or event, often with emotional undertones. Informal compared to 'commemoration'.

  • Candles were lit in remembrance of those who lost their lives.
  • A day of remembrance was declared for the victims of the disaster.
observance

Typically used to describe the act of following a custom, practice, or ritual, often related to cultural or religious events. It is more general than 'commemoration'.

  • The observance of Ramadan is a significant time for Muslims.
  • Schools will be closed in observance of the public holiday.
tribute

Used to show respect or admiration, often in a public manner. Can be in the form of speeches, writings, or symbolic acts.

  • The artist paid tribute to her mentor during the award ceremony.
  • Flowers were laid as a tribute to the fallen soldiers.

Examples of usage

  • It was a beautiful commemoration of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our country.
  • The annual commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday is a time for reflection and celebration.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originates from the Latin word 'commemoratio', which means 'to bring to mind'.
  • The prefix 'com-' means 'together', and 'memorare' means 'to remember'. Combined, it emphasizes collective memory.
  • The word has been used in English since the 15th century, evolving into its current form over the centuries.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures hold memorial days to commemorate historical events, such as Independence Day in the USA.
  • Commemorative rituals often involve gatherings, speeches, or the creation of monuments, uniting communities.
  • Events like Remembrance Day or Memorial Day honor soldiers who served in wars, emphasizing collective remembrance and gratitude.

Art and Literature

  • Poets often write elegies or commemorative pieces to honor deceased loved ones or historical figures.
  • Artworks, like murals or statues, serve as visual commemorations, capturing the legacy of important events or individuals.
  • Holidays often include poems, songs, or stories that help narrate the significance of what is being commemorated.

Psychology

  • Commemorative practices can enhance community bonds and offer emotional support during times of grief.
  • Psychology suggests that remembering and honoring the past can promote healing and closure for individuals and societies.
  • Creating rituals around commemoration can help people process their feelings and connect with shared heritage.

History

  • The construction of the Eiffel Tower was initially criticized but was later commemorated as an iconic symbol of France.
  • The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., serves as a poignant commemoration of the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War.
  • In ancient cultures, commemorations often revolved around significant agricultural cycles, such as harvest festivals.

Translations

Translations of the word "commemoration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comemoração

🇮🇳 स्मरणोत्सव

🇩🇪 Gedenken

🇮🇩 peringatan

🇺🇦 вшанування

🇵🇱 upamiętnienie

🇯🇵 記念 (kinen)

🇫🇷 commémoration

🇪🇸 conmemoración

🇹🇷 anı

🇰🇷 기념 (ginyeom)

🇸🇦 إحياء الذكرى (ihyaa' aldhikraa)

🇨🇿 vzpomínka

🇸🇰 spomienka

🇨🇳 纪念 (jìniàn)

🇸🇮 spomin

🇮🇸 minning

🇰🇿 еске алу

🇬🇪 აღნიშვნა

🇦🇿 anım

🇲🇽 conmemoración

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,562, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.