Synonym Chooser

How does the noun eulogy differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of eulogy are citation, encomium, panegyric, and tribute. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," 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 citation be used to replace eulogy?

While in some cases nearly identical to eulogy, 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

When is encomium a more appropriate choice than eulogy?

While the synonyms encomium and eulogy are close in meaning, encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When is it sensible to use panegyric instead of eulogy?

The words panegyric and eulogy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

Where would tribute be a reasonable alternative to eulogy?

In some situations, the words tribute and eulogy are roughly equivalent. However, 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 eulogy Barring a truly miraculous comeback, there’s going to be plenty of time to get into the full eulogy of this team — of this core group — next week when this series is over. James Mirtle, New York Times, 15 May 2025 Mourners would walk alongside the body and celebrate the departed's life with odes, art, eulogies, and tears. Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 10 May 2025 After Fitzgerald’s death, a wave of eulogies applauded the author, and at least a couple of them hailed his Jazz Age novel as a classic. Alexander Manshel, New Yorker, 29 Apr. 2025 Re presided over the service and delivered the eulogy. The Hill Staff, The Hill, 26 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eulogy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eulogy
Noun
  • Duchess Meghan shares tribute of Prince Harry for Father's Day.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 17 June 2025
  • The working royal posted a cute tribute to her husband, Jack Brooksbank, for the holiday.
    StyleCaster Editors, StyleCaster, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • The Foundation of Laguna Woods Village received a commendation by the Laguna Woods City Council on May 28 in recognition of its award as the 72nd Assembly District nonprofit of the year.
    Anita Gosch, Oc Register, 15 June 2025
  • Highest commendations to those who made history voting for and passing it through both chambers of the legislature.
    Robert Turner, Baltimore Sun, 2 June 2025
Noun
  • In 1983, Ellison was awarded a distinguished service citation by the University of Kansas Alumni Association.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 17 June 2025
  • Instead, officers must visually observe a driver speeding in order to issue a citation.
    Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 17 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Eulogy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eulogy. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on eulogy

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