C1noun3K

Memorial

UK /["/məˈmɔːriəl/"]/US /["/məˈmɔːriəl/"]/

Definition

a statue, stone, etc. that is built in order to remind people of an important past event or of a famous person who has died

In simple words: A place or event to remember someone who has died.

Examples

  • a **war memorial** *(= in memory of soldiers who died in a war)*
  • a memorial to victims of the Holocaust
  • The memorial stands on the village green.
  • The president today unveiled a memorial to those who died in the disaster.
  • a makeshift memorial marked by posters and flowers
  • This ruin became a memorial for the victims of the bombing.
  • The painting will be a lasting memorial to a remarkable woman.
  • a memorial of my husband
  • a memorial for victims of the air crash
  • They are holding a memorial for it.

Usage notes

Used in contexts related to honoring someone's memory, especially after death. Appropriate for somber situations but can also be used in a celebratory context about someone's life. Avoid using casually.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'memory' and 'memorial' – both are about remembering someone.

Collocations

  • lasting
  • permanent
  • living
  • build
  • erect
  • establish
  • commemorate somebody/​something
  • honour/​honor somebody
  • stand
  • ceremony
  • service
  • memorial for
  • memorial of
  • memorial to
  • lasting
  • permanent
  • living
  • build
  • erect
  • establish
  • commemorate somebody/​something
  • honour/​honor somebody
  • stand
  • ceremony
  • service
  • memorial for
  • memorial of
  • memorial to

Synonyms

  • tribute
  • commemoration
  • honor
  • remembrance
  • monument

Antonyms

  • celebration
  • commemoration

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'memorial' with 'memory'.
  • Using 'memorial' to refer to any kind of celebration.
  • Not knowing the difference between a memorial service and a funeral.