eulogy

[yoo-luh-jee]

noun

plural

eulogies 

1. a speech or writing in praise of a person or thing, especially a set oration in honor of a deceased person.

2. high praise or commendation.

eulogy

/ ˈjuːlədʒɪ /

noun

1. a formal speech or piece of writing praising a person or thing, esp a person who has recently died

2. high praise or commendation

eulogy

1. Words of praise, often for a dead person, but also a staple in introducing speakers, in nominating candidates, and on other such occasions. (Compare elegy.)

Confusables Note

See elegy

Word History and Origins

Origin of eulogy¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Late Latin eulogia eulogia and Medieval Latin eulogium eulogium

Word History and Origins

Origin of eulogy¹

C16: from Late Latin eulogia, from Greek: praise, from _eu- + _-logy ; influenced by Latin ēlogium short saying, inscription

Example Sentences

“None of those men could ever imagine someone of Silcott’s race or color wielding that kind of power, despite the phony smiles and benign language used,” Mitchell said in his eulogy at Howard.

From Los Angeles Times

The result was one of Scorsese’s simplest, most powerful performances — a moving eulogy not just for the slain Osage but also all the innocent characters victimized by his films’ litany of bad men.

From Los Angeles Times

The latter eulogy receives all the reverence it’s earned.

From Los Angeles Times

“He cried. He got choked up and cried during his eulogy.”

From Los Angeles Times

Jess Walter’s searing and sublime eighth novel, “So Far Gone,” is a wistful elegy — some might say a eulogy — to a kinder, gentler time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• citation 
• paean 
• tribute