Panegyric
/ˌpænəˈdʒɪrɪk/
nounC2
Definition
A panegyric is a special kind of speech or writing that gives strong praise to a person, group, or idea. It usually happens in public or important events, like ceremonies or celebrations. The goal is to honor and show great respect.
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See It in Action
A formal speech or text praising a person or thing
- •The mayor gave a panegyric honoring the city’s founder.
- •At the ceremony, she read a panegyric about the famous artist.
- •The book contains panegyrics celebrating the achievements of great leaders.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "panegyric" like "speech," but one that is ONLY for praising someone or something very much
- ✓Picture a person standing at a podium, speaking with strong, happy words about a hero or leader
- ✓It’s the feeling of admiration and respect you get when someone talks about a person’s good qualities in a special way
- ✓Sounds like "PAN-uh-JEER-ik" → Imagine a "pan" full of "cheer" (happy praise) being poured out loudly for someone
- ✓Think of a graduation speech that praises students for their hard work and success
- ✓NOT like "complaint" (talking about problems), panegyric is only about praise and honor
- ✓NOT like "thank you" (simple gratitude), panegyric is longer and more formal praise
- ✓NOT like "story" (just telling events), panegyric focuses on praising qualities and achievements
Try Other Words
- •Eulogy: a speech that praises someone, often after they have died (Use when praising a person who has passed away)
- •Tribute: an act or statement showing respect or admiration (Use for less formal or shorter praise)
- •Commendation: official praise, often written (Use in formal or official contexts)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "pan-" (all, every) + "egyris" (assembly, gathering) from Greek
- •Etymology: From Greek "panēguris," meaning a public gathering or festival where speeches were made
- •Historical development: Originally meant speeches given at public festivals praising gods or heroes in ancient Greece and Rome
- •Modern usage: Used to describe formal, public praise speeches or writings about people or things, often at ceremonies or special occasions
Reflect & Connect
•How might a panegyric be different if given in a small private meeting instead of a large public event?
•Can you think of a time when you heard or gave a panegyric? How did it make you feel?
Fill in the blanks
1.The speaker delivered a panegyric ___ the hero’s bravery and kindness during the ceremony.
2.A panegyric is usually given in a ___ setting, such as a public event or celebration.
3.Unlike a simple thank you, a panegyric is ___ and full of formal praise.
4.When someone gives a panegyric, they focus on ___ the good qualities of a person or idea.
5.A panegyric is ___ like a complaint or criticism.
6.At the funeral, the family asked a close friend to give a ___, which is similar to a panegyric but for someone who has passed away.
7.The panegyric was so full of admiration that everyone in the audience felt ___ for the person being praised.