Encomium
/ɛnˈkoʊ.mi.əm/noun
A formal expression of praise or high commendation.
Did you know?Encomium comes through Latin from Greek enkṓmion, originally a song of praise sung at a festival or banquet, so the word began as literally performative praise.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Gk
enkṓmion
“A song of praise, especially for a victor or honored person at a feast or celebration.”
Classical Greek
Gk
kômos
“A festive revel, procession, or celebratory band; the root behind the idea of public celebration.”
Latin
Lat
encomium
“A formal eulogy or praise-poem, borrowed from Greek.”
Middle English
Eng
encomium
“A formal praise or commendatory speech or writing.”
Modern English
Eng
encomium
“A formal expression of praise or high commendation.”