Synonyms of encomium

encomium

noun

en-ˈkō-mē-əm 

as in tribute

a formal expression of praise

the encomiums bestowed on a teacher at her retirement ceremonies

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tribute
• commendation
• citation
• panegyric
• accolade
• award
• homage
• hymn
• eulogy
• eulogium
• paean
• dithyramb
• salutation
• prize
• applause
• acclaim
• laudation
• dedication
• honor
• decoration
• acclamation
• approval
• recommendation
• hallelujah
• cachet
• compliment
• bravo
• plaudit(s)
• kudo

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• condemnation
• indictment
• denunciation
• censure
• rebuke
• reprimand
• lecture
• sermon
• correction
• reproof
• admonition
• harangue

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

Recent Examples of encomium

Since Joe Biden was dragged kicking and screaming from the 2024 presidential race, Americans have been treated with many an encomium to the president’s selfless statesmanship. —Jason Willick, Washington Post, 30 July 2024

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

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