Giving and receiving praise are such universal experiences that there are multiple words for types of speeches and poetry specifically dedicated to showing admiration. A panegyric (from the Greek “panēgurikos,” meaning “of public assembly”) is a public speech or published text in praise of someone or something. For example, an op-ed lauding a volunteer group for their excellent service to the community would be a panegyric, as would a speech honoring the teacher of the year. A formal commendation can also be called an encomium, laudation, or accolade. A eulogy, meanwhile, is a tribute for someone who has recently passed, given in either speech or text. And in the poetic tradition, an ode is a lyric poem in honor of a particular subject, and a hymn is a religious song or poem of praise. With all these options, how will you be paying your compliments?