We are frequently asked this question. Yes, an "encomium" is a real word you can use each day to impress your friends and relatives. Below we display definitions of the word from a variety of dictionaries.
en·co·mi·um( n-k  m - m)
n. pl. en·co·mi·ums or en·co·mi·a (-m-)
1. Warm, glowing praise.
2. A formal expression of praise; a tribute.
[Latin encmium, from Greek enkmion (epos), (speech) praising a victor, neuter of enkmios, of the victory procession : en-, in; see en-2 + kmos, celebration.] |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
encomium [?n?k??m??m]
n pl -miums,
-mia [-m??]
(Literary & Literary Critical Terms) a formal expression of praise; eulogy; panegyric
[from Latin, from Greek enk?mion, from en-2 + k?mos festivity]
Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003
encomium
formal praise; an elaborate or ceremonial panegyric or eulogy. — encomiast, n. — encomiastic, adj.
See also: Praise
-Ologies & -Isms. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun |
1. |
encomium - a formal expression of praise
|
Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc
Here are some examples of the word encomium in use.
This part of the existing hymn ends with an encomium of the Delian festival of Apollo and of the Delian choirs.
When he had enumerated the many different occasions on which the Hurons had exhibited their courage and prowess, in the punishment of insults, he digressed in a high
encomium on the virtue of wisdom.
And applying his black beard to the pitcher, he took a draught much more moderate in quantity than his
encomium seemed to warrant.
