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 Charles memorably delivered the passionate eulogy at Princess Diana's royal ceremonial funeral in 1997 and has openly spoken about the enduring pain of grieving her today. Janine Henni, People.com, 1 Sep. 2025 Her boyfriend, Nicholas DiRubio, delivered a eulogy at the funeral in Carlow, Ireland, Wednesday morning, about 55 miles from Dublin. Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2025 As the ever-lovable father plays along with his daughter’s morose game, the film becomes both a love letter and a living eulogy, balancing gallows humor with profound tenderness. Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025 No one besides a clergy member wants to be good and, far worse, experienced at delivering eulogies. Todd Harmonson, Oc Register, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eulogy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eulogy
Noun
  • Bargatze’s bit is predicated on the fact that most awards show speeches are self-indulgent, rambling tributes to other celebrities, which is fine.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Vance's tribute is expected to reflect on Kirk's legacy and his role in shaping conservative youth movements.
    Amanda Castro Hannah Parry Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The mode is one of willing commendation, trading on the imperative, hortative and jussive moods, the latter two of which have long disappeared from the English tongue.
    Elaine L. Wang September 11, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The North Carolina man has pleaded not guilty to all charged and indicated his defense will center largely on his character, citing Eagle Scout commendations and community service.
    Hannah Phillips, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The exact citation reportedly appears in a University of Victoria style guide, a document that teaches students how to format references using fictional examples.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Larry Brooks, who lives a block away from the attack, was also given four citations on the day of Broadbelt’s death for not having rabbies vaccines and unregistered dogs.
    Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 12 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Eulogy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eulogy. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on eulogy

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