Encomium
hardPositive toneen-KOH-mee-um
noun
Definition
A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly
Memory hook
EN-COME-IUM: everyone COMES to the podIUM to heap praise — a glowing speech of tribute.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The biography reads more like an encomium than an objective account.”
“Colleagues delivered encomiums at his retirement dinner.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The biography reads more like an ______ than an objective account.”
Show answer
encomium
Categories
GRE Tip
Encomium is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "panegyric" or "eulogy" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "denunciation".
Related GRE Words
panegyric
A public speech or writing in praise of someone or something
eulogy
A speech praising someone who has died
accolade
An award or privilege granted as a special honor; high praise
eulogize
To praise highly, especially in a formal speech
adulation
Excessive admiration or praise
adulatory
Excessively praising or admiring; fawning
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