Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of oratory used to eulogize or condemn a person or group of people: "Epideictic oratory" is a formal category of public speaking, also called ceremonial or demonstrative rhetoric. Its primary purpose is not to debate policy or argue a legal case, but to praise (eulogize) or blame (condemn) someone or something in the present, often to strengthen shared community values.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The poet's moving tribute at the memorial service was a powerful piece of epideictic oratory.
  • Many graduation speeches fall under the category of epideictic oratory, aiming to celebrate the graduates' achievements.
  • A scathing political speech that solely attacks an opponent's character, without proposing policy, is an example of epideictic oratory used for condemnation.

Advanced Usage

• As a rhetorical genre: In classical rhetoric established by Aristotle, epideictic oratory is one of the three main genres, alongside deliberative (political) and forensic (legal) oratory. It is concerned with the present and the concepts of honor and shame.
• "Epideictic" as an adjective: The term "epideictic" itself is an adjective describing this type of speech or writing (e.g., an epideictic address, epideictic rhetoric).

Variants and Related Words

• Epideictic (adj): Of or relating to a ceremonial speech of praise or blame.
  • The essay had an epideictic tone, celebrating the nation's founding ideals.
• Demonstrative oratory: A synonym for epideictic oratory, emphasizing its function of "showing" or "demonstrating" worth.
• Ceremonial oratory: A synonym highlighting its use in formal ceremonies and rituals.

Synonyms

• Ceremonial speech
• Demonstrative rhetoric
• Panegyric (specifically for speeches of praise)
• Invective (specifically for speeches of condemnation)

Related Idioms or Phrases

• To deliver a eulogy: This is a common, specific form of epideictic oratory focused on praise for the deceased.
• To give a panegyric: A formal term for delivering a public speech of high praise, synonymous with one type of epideictic oratory.

Noun

1. a type of oratory used to eulogize or condemn a person or group of people
   • Pericles' funeral oration for Athenians killed in the Peloponnesian War is a famous example of epideictic oratory