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

Each year, a different brother played Paddy, lying in the coffin, where he was roasted by a series of mock eulogies. —Peter Hessler, New Yorker, 31 May 2026

More than 1,000 people attended her memorial service in December, including San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, who gave a eulogy. —Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 30 May 2026

State and local police alongside fire departments, EMT, state officials, veterans, and residents from all over took up the call, gathering at the memorial where there was no eulogy. —Paul Burton, CBS News, 18 May 2026

There was even a draft of his eulogy, measured, unmistakably in his own voice. —Raya Elfadel Kheirbek, Washington Post, 17 May 2026