Synonym Chooser

How does the noun encomium differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of encomium are citation, eulogy, panegyric, and tribute. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When would citation be a good substitute for encomium?

The words citation and encomium are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, citation applies to the formal praise of a person offered in a military dispatch or in awarding an honorary degree.

earned a citation for bravery

In what contexts can eulogy take the place of encomium?

While in some cases nearly identical to encomium, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When could panegyric be used to replace encomium?

In some situations, the words panegyric and encomium are roughly equivalent. However, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

When can tribute be used instead of encomium?

While the synonyms tribute and encomium are close in meaning, tribute implies deeply felt praise conveyed either through words or through a significant act.

the concert was a musical tribute to the early jazz masters

Examples 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 encomium Politics, even now, is about more than baubles and encomia, and in their obstinacy, most voters remain at least somewhat interested in the policies that each candidate brings to the feast. Charles C. W. Cooke, National Review, 29 July 2024 Unlike conservative politicians in the United States, these foreign leaders don’t even need to bother with mouthing encomiums to concepts like tolerance, freedom, and democracy. Franklin Foer, The Atlantic, 1 Mar. 2024 Yet a routine encomium to Lewis’s achievements and influence would ignore the import of his scholarly writings, which resist the usual narratives of individual genius. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 8 Jan. 2024 The Other One, an encomium to Weir on Netflix; next came 2017’s Long Strange Trip, which premiered at Sundance and was executive-produced by Martin Scorsese. Jeff Weiss, Spin, 21 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for encomium 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for encomium
Noun
  • Each piece in the collection pays tribute to Ferguson’s longstanding history with the brand as well as Ksubi pieces she’s kept throughout the years.
    Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Swift closed out her Eras Tour in Vancouver on Dec. 8 with a tribute to the fans who attended the shows throughout its run.
    Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Both officers had also received multiple commendations for their service.
    Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 26 Nov. 2024
  • Bob’s Big Boy is now California Pita, whose grand opening in 2007 occasioned a commendation from then-Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
    Thomas Curwen, Los Angeles Times, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Some residents have also filed a petition with hopes of stopping the rebuilding of the Givaudan site in residential parts of the city after the plant and company's lengthy history, where previous explosions have occurred and city citations issued.
    Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Between January and April, about 54% of stops resulted in citations, compared to about 61% in the six months after the policy shift.
    Shelly Bradbury, The Denver Post, 8 Dec. 2024

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Thesaurus Entries Near encomium

Cite this Entry

“Encomium.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/encomium. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on encomium

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