Synonym Chooser

How does the noun tribute differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of tribute are citation, encomium, eulogy, and panegyric. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," tribute implies deeply felt praise conveyed either through words or through a significant act.

the concert was a musical tribute to the early jazz masters

When could citation be used to replace tribute?

In some situations, the words citation and tribute are roughly equivalent. However, citation applies to the formal praise of a person offered in a military dispatch or in awarding an honorary degree.

earned a citation for bravery

When is encomium a more appropriate choice than tribute?

The meanings of encomium and tribute largely overlap; however, encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When might eulogy be a better fit than tribute?

Although the words eulogy and tribute have much in common, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When would panegyric be a good substitute for tribute?

While in some cases nearly identical to tribute, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tribute The memorial grounds pay tribute to this beloved Moroccan king through its mausoleum which holds the tombs of Mohammed V and his two sons — the late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Tiffany Leigh, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025 During the Nashville stop of the group's latest world tour, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin interrupted the band's usual set list to pay tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, the rock legend who died Tuesday, July 22, at 76. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 23 July 2025 That’s not a typo: The brand, which is owned by Brown-Forman (parent company of Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve) uses the Scottish style of spelling to pay tribute to founder George Garvin Brown’s family roots. Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 22 July 2025 The New England Patriots were among the sports franchises and sports figures paying tribute to the late heavy metal icon who voiced the introductions of the team's home games for more than two decades. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for tribute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tribute
Noun
  • Osbourne made a surprise cameo near the film’s end, helping Nicky defeat one of his villains — who is disguised as a bat — by biting off its head, an homage to one of the rock star's most infamous on-stage antics.
    Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 22 July 2025
  • Stick around through the end credits for the obligatory teaser of what’s in store and a breezy homage to an earlier iteration.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 2025
Noun
  • Chris Copan was presented with a letter of commendation at the town’s annual Town Meeting for his actions at Woburn District Court on April 14.
    Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 7 May 2025
  • In keeping with tradition, the Mass will include a homily and communion and end with a final commendation and farewell.
    Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Workers refused to work with a hazardous chemical earlier this year, and officials did not issue a citation after a worker was sprayed with another chemical months prior.
    Connor Giffin, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
  • Authorities said that the driver remained at the scene and was given a citation.
    Sam Gillette, People.com, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • But Ramirez, who co-founded the restaurant with his wife Andreina Matos in December 2020, said the international award has paid off in more immediate ways during a summer when reservations are down and dining rooms were looking a little too empty.
    Connie Ogle July 25, Miami Herald, 25 July 2025
  • State officials who spoke to CNN for this story say they were given no explanation for why the awards were reduced or increased this cycle.
    Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • Oval Beach often receives accolades as one of the best beaches in Michigan.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 13 July 2025
  • Mayer previously ran the Mentors at Cordova High program and was awarded the 2012 Rancho Cordovan of the Year accolade.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 12 July 2025
Noun
  • Their journey continued to Caen and the Normandy region, and included a visit to the beaches and to the Normandy American Cemetery to sing our national anthem and hymns, and also to lay a wreath.
    Tom Strong, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025
  • The bill drew the most heated public protests of the legislative session, with protestors often shutting down committee meetings through reciting the Pledge of Allegiance or singing hymns.
    Melissa Brown, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Noun
  • Nicole Ari Parker, who plays LTW, gives it her all this episode, lightly sparring with guest actress Jenifer Lewis and breaking down while reading a eulogy.
    Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 9 July 2025
  • His funeral is held in a local theater, where Lisa is tasked with delivering a eulogy.
    Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 7 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tribute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tribute. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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