Encomium, n.; pl. Encomiums.
Etymology: [NL., fr. Gr. Comedy.]
Warm or high praise; panegyric; strong commendation. His encomiums awakened all my ardor. W. Irving.
Syn. -- See Eulogy.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for encomium; he lists it under praise.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.