'encomium' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'encomium', from Greek 'ἐγκώμιον (enkōmion)', where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'κῶμος (kōmos)' referred to a revel or a song (a song of praise).

'encomium' passed from Greek 'ἐγκώμιον' into Latin as 'encomium' and was later adopted into Middle English and modern English with little change in form.

Initially, it meant 'a song of praise performed at a banquet' but over time it evolved into the current meaning of 'a formal expression or composition of praise (e.g., eulogy)'.