Synonym Chooser

How does the noun tribute differ from other similar words?

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

When could citation be used to replace tribute?

In some situations, the words citation and tribute are roughly equivalent. However, 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 tribute?

The meanings of encomium and tribute largely overlap; however, encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When might eulogy be a better fit than tribute?

Although the words eulogy and tribute have much in common, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When would panegyric be a good substitute for tribute?

While in some cases nearly identical to tribute, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

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 tribute Ellie Goulding shared a sweet tribute to Goodall with Rolling Stone crediting her changing her environmentalism into a lifelong mission. Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 20 Oct. 2025 Elegant tributes to Blanc’s vision and the stature the city of Hyères gained under his watch were offered by Pascale Mussard, president of the Villa Noailles association; Jean-Pierre Giran, the mayor of Hyères; and Pascal Morand, the executive president of the FCHM. Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025 The tributes to Giorgio Armani continued at the Academy Museum Gala, with a variety of stars honoring the late designer by wearing looks past and present. Laurie Brookins, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2025 The setlist is expected to include old classics, new arrangements, a tribute to Peart and possibly some new material. Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tribute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tribute
Noun
  • Her visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, which its nearest neighbors see as an homage to Japan’s past wartime aggressions, have also angered both of those nations.
    Hanako Montgomery, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2025
  • His middle name is a homage to the Atlanta Braves’ former field where Freddie played for the majority of his career.
    Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • In his role as an officer, Baker received multiple chief’s commendations, including one in 2011 for his role in flawlessly executing multiple critical tasks during a domestic shooting incident involving a man who allegedly shot and wounded his wife in their suburban townhouse neighborhood.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 19 Sep. 2025
  • The mode is one of willing commendation, trading on the imperative, hortative and jussive moods, the latter two of which have long disappeared from the English tongue.
    Elaine L. Wang September 11, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • His only local court citation, for an expired registration tag, was dismissed in 1998.
    Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Fry is not yet aware of any citations issued to hunters in Wyoming who were relying on AI for information.
    Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 23 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Awards will include the Tokyo Projects Award, worth $13,300 (JPY2M), selected by an industry jury; the Asian Gen‑Z Award, worth $3,300 (JPY500,000), chosen by a committee of Gen-Z film students; as well as in-kind awards from leading Asian post-production houses White Light and Kongchak.
    Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2025
  • However, with award-winning wineries and stunning vistas at every turn, this Canadian gem deserves far more recognition.
    Kimberly Lyn, Travel + Leisure, 21 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Federal investigation reveals wide criminal net Browse the website of Chen’s Prince Group, and the company’s public image is one of charitable endeavors, business accolades and awards for corporate social responsibility initiatives, large donations to anti-Covid efforts, and education programs.
    Helen Regan, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Awarded writers and filmmakers received accolades from industry partners including AMC Networks, Enderby Entertainment, Josephson Entertainment and the Writers Guild of America East.
    Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 25 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • My father began singing a hymn, drowning my voice out.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Oct. 2025
  • History and messages were shared through field hymns and songs.
    Taylor Cassidy, Time, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • In her eulogy for Chefitz, Rabbi Julie Jacobs reflected on his impact, deeply felt by many.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 25 Oct. 2025
  • Set personal boundaries People are already using ChatGPT to write eulogies, wedding toasts, and bedtime stories for their children.
    Tharin Pillay, Time, 21 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tribute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tribute. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tribute

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