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 Pastor Johnny Lee Gaddy, co-author of Dark Days of Horror at Dozier: Rapes, Murders, Beatings and Slavery, delivered a eulogy. Ellen Wexler, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Feb. 2025 After Ford's death in 2006, Carter delivered a eulogy at his service. Avery Lotz, Axios, 9 Jan. 2025 Former White House aide Stu Eizenstat used his eulogy to make an effort to reframe the Carter presidency as more successful than voters appreciated at the time. Bill Barrow, Twin Cities, 9 Jan. 2025 The day of mourning coincides with Carter’s state funeral, which will be held at Washington National Cathedral and will feature eulogies from Biden and former President Gerald R. Ford, who died in 2006 but left a eulogy to be read for Carter, the New York Times reported. Molly Bohannon, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eulogy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eulogy
Noun
  • The two were married for well over 50 years, and the track serves as a tribute to their decades-long love story.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • This isn’t the first time Rodrigo has paid tribute to No Doubt.
    Mitchell Peters, Billboard, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Former San Jose Public Art Director Barbara Goldstein appeared before the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors this month to accept a commendation for Womanhood.
    Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 29 Mar. 2025
  • While these commendations are encouraging, the students say witnessing a direct impact on families has been the most rewarding.
    Tara Sreekrishnan, The Mercury News, 9 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Concerned about the escalating speed and the recent citation, the trooper stopped her again and arrested her.
    Jamel Valencia, Baltimore Sun, 20 Mar. 2025
  • On those arguments, Reyes found the DOJ’s citations to be either irrelevant or misinterpreted.
    Samantha Riedel, Them, 20 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eulogy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eulogy. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on eulogy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!