citation

noun ci·ta·tion \sī-ˈtā-shən\

: an official order to appear before a court of law

: a formal public statement that praises a person for doing something good or brave

: a line or short section taken from a piece of writing or a speech

Full Definition of CITATION

: an official summons to appear (as before a court)

a : an act of quoting; especially : the citing of a previously settled case at law

b : excerpt, quotation

: mention: as

a : a formal statement of the achievements of a person receiving an academic honor

b : specific reference in a military dispatch to meritorious performance of duty

— ci·ta·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

See citation defined for English-language learners

See citation defined for kids

First Known Use of CITATION

13th century

Related to CITATION

Synonyms: accolade, encomium, commendation, dithyramb, eulogium, eulogy, homage, hymn, paean, panegyric, salutation, tribute

Synonym Discussion of CITATION

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>.