n.
Pronunciation: en- ' k ō -m ē - ə m
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -mi · ums also -mia \ -m ē - ə \
Etymology: Latin, from Greek enk ō mion, from en in + k ō mos revel, celebration
Date: 1567
: glowing and warmly enthusiastic praise also : an expression of this
synonyms ENCOMIUM , EULOGY , PANEGYRIC , TRIBUTE , CITATION mean a formal expression of praise. ENCOMIUM implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing <received encomiums from literary critics>. EULOGY applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person <delivered the eulogy at the funeral service>. PANEGYRIC suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment <her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor>. 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>. 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>.