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

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 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
  • Earlier this month, the Italian brand celebrated the Chinese New Year with a new campaign featuring global brand ambassadors Ni Ni and Xiao Zhan, paying tribute to family, tradition and the symbolic renewal of the Year of the Snake.
    Luisa Zargani, WWD, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Subtle nude tones throughout the space pay tribute to the designer’s signature color palette, adding a touch of his timeless elegance to the experience.
    Essence, Essence, 24 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • That’s to say nothing of Conclave’s performances, art direction, costuming, and cinematography, all of which are worthy of commendation.
    Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 26 Dec. 2024
  • Catch up quick: Republicans wrested control of Hillsborough County from Democrats in 2022 and have leveraged that power to torpedo Pride commendations, slash affordable housing programs and more.
    Yacob Reyes, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Cole Ellison, 28, of Worchester Street in Siloam Springs was released from custody on citation after his arrest.
    Tracy Neal, arkansasonline.com, 20 Jan. 2025
  • Creole Soul Restaurant and Bar, 2026 Broadway in Sacramento, had 10 citations on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacramento Bee, 17 Jan. 2025

Podcast

Thesaurus Entries Near encomium

Cite this Entry

“Encomium.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/encomium. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on encomium

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!