Encomium
enˈkōmēəm
Noun
- A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly.
Example Sentences
“The retirement gala was capped off by a gracious encomium, acknowledging everyone who had been with the company for at least 25 years.”
“The memoir opened with an encomium for her teachers who encouraged her in her childhood struggles.”
“He was surprised to receive such a glowing encomium from his children at the birthday party.”
Word Origin
Greek, mid-16th century
Why this word?
“Encomium” is a formal word for a speech that praises someone highly, but a more commonly recognized word that means the same thing is “eulogy.” The Greek word enkōmion translates directly to English as “eulogy,” which means “a speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly, typically someone who has just died.”
Advertisement
