Panegyric
hardPositive tonepan-uh-JIR-ik
noun
Definition
A public speech or writing in praise of someone or something
Memory hook
PAN-E-GYRIC: praise spoken to ALL at a public GATHERING — a formal speech of high praise.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The biography read more like a panegyric than an objective account.”
“He delivered a panegyric to the retiring director.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The biography read more like a ______ than an objective account.”
Show answer
panegyric
Categories
GRE Tip
Panegyric is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "eulogy" or "encomium" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "diatribe".
Related GRE Words
encomium
A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly
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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