Encomium
/ɛnˈkoʊmiəm/
nounC1
Definition
An encomium is a special kind of praise, usually given in a formal way such as a speech or written text. It is used to show strong admiration or respect for a person, group, or idea, often highlighting their good qualities or achievements.
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See It in Action
A formal speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something
- •The professor gave an encomium to the retiring teacher during the ceremony.
- •The book contained an encomium celebrating the artist’s life and work.
- •At the awards night, the host delivered an encomium to the volunteers’ hard work.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "encomium" like "praise" (A1 word), but much more formal and detailed—like a special speech at an important event
- ✓Picture someone giving a speech at a graduation or a ceremony, saying all the best things about a person or group
- ✓It's the feeling of admiration and respect that comes from hearing or reading beautiful words about someone you like or respect
- ✓Sounds like "en-CO-mee-um" → imagine a microphone ("co") in the middle where someone speaks warmly about a person
- ✓Think of a best man's speech at a wedding, where he talks about the good qualities of the groom with great respect and kindness
- ✓NOT like casual "compliment" (short and informal), "encomium" is long, formal, and often public
- ✓NOT like "criticism" (negative opinion), encomium is completely positive and admiring
Try Other Words
- •Tribute: a statement or action showing respect or admiration (Use when honoring someone, especially after an event like death or retirement)
- •Eulogy: a speech or piece of writing that praises someone, usually after they have died (Use for memorial or funeral speeches)
- •Commendation: official praise or approval (Use in formal or official contexts, like awards or certificates)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Greek "en-" (in) + "komos" (revel, festivity) + "-ium" (noun ending)
- •Etymology: From Greek "enkomion," meaning a song of praise sung at a festival or celebration
- •Historical development: Originally meant a joyful song praising someone, later used for formal speeches or writings of praise
- •Modern usage: Used mainly in formal or literary contexts to describe speeches or writings that highly praise people or ideas
Reflect & Connect
•When might it be important to give an encomium instead of just a simple compliment?
•How does a formal encomium affect the way people feel about the person or idea being praised?
Fill in the blanks
1.The mayor gave an encomium ___ the community leaders for their ___ work during the crisis.
2.An encomium is usually given in a ___ setting, such as a ceremony or special event.
3.Unlike a quick compliment, an encomium is often ___ and detailed.
4.The author’s encomium ___ the bravery and kindness of the main character.
5.People often write an encomium to ___ someone’s achievements after a long career.
6.An encomium is ___ positive and never includes criticism.
7.The speech was an encomium ___ the volunteers, showing deep ___ for their efforts.