panegyric
Say it: pan-uh-JIR-ik /ˌpænɪˈdʒɪrɪk/ · noun
What “panegyric” means
A formal public speech or piece of writing praising someone.
More precisely: A public speech or text of elaborate, formal praise.
Example: “The retirement dinner turned into a long panegyric to the founder.”
When to use it
For elaborate public praise, especially ceremonial speeches, in formal discussion or with a gently mocking literary tone.
Similar words
tribute, eulogy, encomium
Where it comes from
Greek panēgurikos, 'for a public assembly'.
Quick check
At a civic ceremony, a speaker delivers an elaborate formal tribute praising a living scientist's achievements. What is the speech?
a eulogy or a panegyric?
Show the answer
a panegyric
Learn 5 new words a day in Kinquire. Each with a picture, how to say it, an example and a quick check, then spaced review so you actually keep them. Free to start.
Learn “panegyric”