noun / adjective

panegyric

pan-uh-JEER-ik/ˌpænəˈdʒɪrɪk/

Formal or elaborate praise in speech or writing.

The mayor delivers a panegyric celebrating the retiring librarian's service.

A formal tribute address: a speaker delivers prepared remarks while warmly presenting a seated honoree to an applauding audience.

Etymology

panGreekall

+egyrGreekplace of assembly

+icGreekrelating to

“All” and “assembly” underlie a term for a speech addressed to a public gathering, especially a religious festival. Its meaning narrowed from such public addresses to formal speeches or writings of praise.

In context

Odd Origins3:54

A formulaic praise preamble stapled onto the front of what is usually a land grant. They are commissioned panegyric.

The Empire That Carved Its Government Into Stone

More examples

Her review reads like a panegyric rather than a balanced assessment.
The anniversary volume collects panegyrics to the university's founder.
The biography's panegyric tone leaves little room for criticism.

Forms

panegyric · panegyrics

Similar words

eulogy: Usually praises someone who has died, especially at a funeral.
tribute: Can honor someone through actions or objects, not just words.