First Known Use: 1603
Dictionary
panegyric
noun pan·e·gy·ric \ˌpa-nə-ˈjir-ik, -ˈjī-rik\
: something (such as a speech or a piece of writing) that praises someone or something
Full Definition of PANEGYRIC
: a eulogistic oration or writing; also : formal or elaborate praise
— pan·e·gy·ri·cal \-ˈjir-i-kəl, -ˈjī-ri-\ adjective
— pan·e·gy·ri·cal·ly \-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
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Origin of PANEGYRIC
Latin panegyricus, from Greek panēgyrikos, from panēgyrikos of or for a festival assembly, from panēgyris festival assembly, from pan- + agyris assembly; akin to Greek ageirein to gather
Related to PANEGYRIC
Synonym Discussion of PANEGYRIC
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>.
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