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

Johnson had just finished answering questions for nine minutes — on the defeat, on the exhilarating season, on the future — and Williams was headed to give his own eulogy. — Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026

Meredith decided to share her pregnancy news — and that Johnny would soon be a father of three, not two — in her eulogy at his and Matthew’s funeral. — Julie Mazziotta, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026

The new edition includes previously unseen archival photographs, a new introduction, a personal eulogy for late Smiths bassist Andy Rourke and a foreword from Oasis’ Noel Gallagher. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 25 Aug. 2026

The book features previously-unseen archival photography, a new introduction, a personal eulogy for Johnny’s friend and the Smiths’ bassist Andy Rourke, and a foreword by Noel Gallagher. — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 25 Aug. 2026