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 When Did Jackie Robinson Die? Robinson didn't come close to getting to see the entirety of Major League Baseball pay tribute to his significance. Arick Wierson, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025 Actors Ed Westwick, David Boreanaz, Kenan Thompson, Kim Cattrall and Melissa Gilbert also were among the actors who paid tribute to Trachtenberg. Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2025 The collection also pays tribute to late French composer and conductor Pierre Boulez, with a commemorative concert marking the 100th anniversary of his birth, and also features the first live concert at Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral following its reopening last year. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2025 John Amos‘ last acting role before his death in August 2024 was in the series premiere of Suits LA, and this Sunday, the NBC drama paid tribute to the late actor with a significant storyline. Vlada Gelman, TVLine, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tribute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tribute
Noun
  • The custom Reeboks Nate wears are an homage to his mother’s homeland, with light blue, yellow and green the colors of the Rwandan flag.
    Lindsay Schnell, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Thousands lined up to pay homage before pope's funeral About 25,000 people bid farewell to Francis through this week as the pope was lying in state at St. Peter's.
    Susan Miller, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • According to her official bio, Chatfield was the recipient of numerous honors, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star and commendation medals from the Navy, Army and Air Force.
    Jade Walker, CNN Money, 8 Apr. 2025
  • To receive commendation from such a fairy godmother was not just a joy but a serious professional boost, and Macdonald’s reputation soared.
    Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 3 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • When the responsible party is identified and the case is completed, the Animal Control Unit will determine what citations will be appropriate.
    Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Mendoza’s resolute bravery was praised in the formal citation by the Navy that awarded him a Silver Star for valor.
    Fred Schruers, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His work has received dozens of national and regional awards.
    Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 19 Apr. 2025
  • While winning awards is prestigious, a single award may not translate to additional sales.
    Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Among Andor’s accolades were eight Emmy nominations and a Peabody Award.
    Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Mark is an exceptional horse trainer with accolades like training Quarter Horse Race Stake winners and even polo horses for Polo Hall of Famer Bart Evans.
    Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The Vatican released a book of celebration on its website for the event, containing prayers and hymns.
    Brendan Cole, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Also on the schedule for the Wednesday night event were hymns from the Marine Corps Band and singer Charles Billingsley was to perform Christian opera, as Fox News Digital previously reported.
    Ashley J. DiMella Fox News, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • This turn of events gives him the confidence to cross the pond and attend her funeral, where his contributions are part of the digital eulogy.
    William Earl, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Martinez had been one of Baker’s roommates and delivered a eulogy at his funeral but later confessed to participating in a scheme with another roommate to kidnap Baker for $100,000 ransom.
    Martha Ross, Mercury News, 2 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tribute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tribute. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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