elegy vs. eulogy

elegy vs. eulogy: What's the difference?

Eulogy refers to any speech or writing in praise of a person, but it’s especially used for a formalized speech in honor of a deceased person. Elegy refers to a mournful poem or song, especially one written for a funeral or a deceased person. While a eulogy is a standard part of many funerals, elegies are slightly less common.

elegy

noun

plural

elegies 

  1. a mournful, melancholy, or plaintive poem, especially a funeral song or a lament for the dead.

  2. a poem written in elegiac meter.

  3. a sad or mournful musical composition.

eulogy

noun

plural

eulogies 

  1. a speech or writing in praise of a person or thing, especially a set oration in honor of a deceased person.

  2. high praise or commendation.