Synonym Chooser

How does the noun tribute differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of tribute are citation, encomium, eulogy, and panegyric. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," 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

When could citation be used to replace tribute?

In some situations, the words citation and tribute are roughly equivalent. However, 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 tribute?

The meanings of encomium and tribute largely overlap; however, encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When might eulogy be a better fit than tribute?

Although the words eulogy and tribute have much in common, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When would panegyric be a good substitute for tribute?

While in some cases nearly identical to tribute, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

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 tribute The official Dukes of Hazzard fan page also paid tribute to Hurst on their Instagram. Mekishana Pierre, EW.com, 27 June 2025 The silk suit with a jacquard motif of a siren, paying tribute to the Greek mythological Parthenope, proved the sartorial expertise of the brand. Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 17 June 2025 Among those beginning to pay tribute on Tuesday was X-Factor duo Jedward. Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2025 The working royal posted a cute tribute to her husband, Jack Brooksbank, for the holiday. Stylecaster Editors, StyleCaster, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for tribute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tribute
Noun
  • The hotel’s signature restaurant plays homage to its original owners with its swanky fine dining restaurant, Marchal.
    Elizabeth Brownfield, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • Chef Michelino Gioia and barman Federico Morosi whipped up favorites including shrimp risotto with ginger and lime and the famous Teller negroni, an homage to Juergen Teller and one of Il Pellicano’s many signature cocktails.
    Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • In keeping with tradition, the Mass will include a homily and communion and end with a final commendation and farewell.
    Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2025
  • Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over the funeral liturgy and delivered the final commendation and valediction.
    Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • If residents used parks without this equipment, they would be issued a warning, be removed from the park or receive a $50 monetary citation.
    Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2025
  • Vinson said the village is involved with ongoing litigation with the apartment owner over 170 previously issued citations.
    Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • This means taking positive press mentions or third-party validation (like interviews, features or awards) and weaving them into email campaigns, sales decks or social posts to build trust with new audiences. 3.
    Gianluca Ferruggia, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • The maximum possible award was $7,395 during the 2024-25 school year.
    Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • With a growing list of accolades, Lui and Wong are leading a new wave of emotionally intelligent, human-centric design in Asia and beyond.
    Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Domestically and individually, the 31-year-old has collected every accolade — two Ballons d’Or, two FIFA The Best awards, three Champions Leagues and nine Liga F titles with Barcelona.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • Some family members called Obama's presence days later at a funeral service and his rendition of the hymn a poignant moment as the country grappled with the horror of people gunned down in church.
    Deborah Barfield Berry, USA Today, 17 June 2025
  • The English cook and writer’s 2006 book is a heartfelt hymn for wonderful food and flavors, without hours spent toiling in the kitchen or overly formal settings.
    Hayley Maitland, Vogue, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • Then-President Barack Obama delivered Pinckney's father's eulogy.
    Mark Strassmann, CBS News, 17 June 2025
  • James Gunn is giving his version of a eulogy for Marvel.
    Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 17 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tribute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tribute. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

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