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 Re presided over Francis’s funeral in St. Peter’s Square and is expected to deliver the eulogy. The Hill Staff, The Hill, 26 Apr. 2025 Meredith revealed her pregnancy while delivering her husband’s eulogy last September. Sean Neumann, People.com, 15 Apr. 2025 From the February 1964 issue: A eulogy for John F. Kennedy Relatively few of the documents even mention Kennedy. Kaitlyn Tiffany, The Atlantic, 22 Mar. 2025 This turn of events gives him the confidence to cross the pond and attend her funeral, where his contributions are part of the digital eulogy. William Earl, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eulogy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eulogy
Noun
  • Walking arm in arm with Donatella Versace as the brand’s sole guest, Chance paid tribute to a lineage of Black artistry that transcends genre, generation, and geography.
    Essence, Essence, 12 May 2025
  • Since his mom's death, West has paid tribute to her in various ways and named two albums after her: 2021's Donda and 2022's Donda 2.
    Jack Irvin, People.com, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • Those issued commendations and special recognition from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department include patrol officers Matt Anderson, John Garreffa and Morgan Kral.
    Deborah Laverty, Chicago Tribune, 8 May 2025
  • Throughout her career, Jun has garnered several accolades, including best actress gongs for her TV and cinema roles as well as a commendation for her cultural contribution from South Korea’s prime minister in 2015.
    Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In the careless driving citation on Feb. 7, 2023, police said Hayes was operating his vehicle inattentively and unaware of the surroundings.
    Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 12 May 2025
  • An accelerant was found on Dustin's shoes and in different parts of the house, including near his sons' bodies, according to an arrest citation obtained by WHAS 11.
    Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Eulogy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eulogy. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on eulogy

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