laudatory

Laudatory is an adjective meaning expressing praise or commendation; full of praise or intended to praise. It describes language, remarks, or actions that praise someone or something. Etymology: from Latin laudatorius “of praise,” from laudare “to praise.” In modern English, laudatory is commonly used to characterize reviews, endorsements, speeches, or notes that aim to praise. For example, a critic might publish laudatory reviews; a sponsor may offer a laudatory endorsement; a leader may give a laudatory speech.

Distinctions: laudatory versus laudable. Laudable describes something worthy of praise; laudatory describes the act or content of praising. Related terms include laudation (an act or speech of praise) and laudability (the quality of deserving praise). Synonyms include commendatory, eulogistic, and encomiastic; antonyms include critical, disparaging, and deprecatory.

Usage caveats: in journalism and academic writing, excessively laudatory language can signal bias or undermine credibility; objective assessment is preferred even when praise is warranted. In rhetoric, laudatory language can serve to honor individuals, institutions, or achievements and may be stylistically appropriate in ceremonies and testimonials. It remains a standard descriptor in literary criticism, public speeches, and endorsements where the author or speaker seeks to praise or commend.