eulogy

noun

ˈyü-lə-jē How to pronounce eulogy (audio)
Definition of eulogynext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 During his eulogy, Davis’ son, Doug, shared a letter written by Paul Simon, a longtime friend, and neighbor. — Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 29 June 2026 The aspiring artist lost his father shortly before his 15th birthday, and delivered a touching eulogy at the funeral in English and French. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 20 June 2026 During his eulogy, Alan Lazowski said his father had been diagnosed with cancer two years ago and initially was given a few months to a year to live, but the blessing of his father outliving those initial estimates gave his father time to write his final book. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 21 June 2026 Mourners thronged a vast prayer complex in Tehran on Saturday as the week-long funeral ceremonies of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei began with the national anthem, religious eulogies and readings from the Koran. — Reuters, USA Today, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for eulogy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eulogy
  1. tribute
  2. commendation
  3. citation
Noun
  • Swift recently paid tribute to the Hollywood icon with an entire song on The Life of a Showgirl and licensed imagery and other intellectual property from Elizabeth Taylor's estate for the music video.
    — Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Barcenas' tea-sipping celebration was a tribute to Alex Morgan, one of the Wave's owners, who pretended to take a sip of tea after scoring in a match against England during the 2019 Women's World Cup.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026
Definition of tribute
Noun
  • But precise passes that squeeze the maximum gain out of plays will receive extra commendation.
    — Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 24 June 2026
  • His actions came to light when a letter of commendation was sent to the state by Pamlico County Emergency Services.
    — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 2 June 2026
Definition of commendation
Noun
  • Climbing into it can violate park regulations and lead to removal or citation, even if the river itself is just a few feet away.
    — Gabby Sartori, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • Since 2023, state regulators have issued 6,928 citations, including 140 for abuse and neglect by staff, 254 for accident hazards, and 257 for failing to control infections, according to state records.
    — Bruce Finley, Denver Post, 5 July 2026
Definition of citation

Browse Nearby Words

eulogizing
eulogy
eupeptic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eulogy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eulogy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on eulogy

Nglish: Translation of eulogy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about eulogy

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