Synonyms of eulogy

eulogy

noun

ˈyü-lə-jē 

as in tribute

a formal expression of praise

several eulogies were given at the special assembly marking the retirement of the company's longtime president

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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

Recent Examples of eulogy

Though attendees are visibly upset, there is no open casket, eulogy or any harping on grief. —Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026

Educators were fired for making insensitive comments about him on their personal social-media accounts; a firefighter in Toledo lost his job for posting a derisive eulogy on Facebook; various airline employees were suspended for disparaging Kirk online. —Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 29 Apr. 2026

Across social media and news stories, there are countless eulogies that spotlight his humility, integrity and vision. —Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Apr. 2026

Richard Brookshire read Metayer’s eulogy. —Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2026