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 According to a detailed and well-sourced Washington Post exposé, the plot was directed from the highest levels of Indian intelligence, with the apparent blessing of officials close to Modi himself—all while Modi basked in Biden’s lavish encomium. Andrew Cockburn, Harper's Magazine, 20 Aug. 2024 Legendary frontman Stephen Malkmus would likely be opposed to the usual encomiums. Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 14 Aug. 2024 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 See All Example Sentences for encomium
Recent Examples of Synonyms for encomium
Noun
  • Kirk’s wife, Erika Kirk, who has been outspoken in the aftermath of her husband’s death and has been tapped to take over her husband’s Turning Point brand, also referenced Jesus Christ in her tribute to her husband and promised to continue Kirk’s work.
    Rebecca Schneid, Time, 22 Sep. 2025
  • Popular Appeal Anchored in Local Icons South celebrated Andalusia’s own with a tribute to actor-director-producer Paco León, one of Spain’s most bankable and beloved figures.
    Emiliano De Pablos, Variety, 22 Sep. 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
  • More than 900 properties across the city contributed to the honor and were celebrated for the same characteristics that can lead to a citation under the vegetation ordinance.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2025
  • In addition, patents themselves allow the citation of scientific publications, which can also be traced back to grants.
    John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 25 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Encomium.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/encomium. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

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