Celebrant glossary
What is a eulogy?
Reviewed 04/09/2026
Quick definition
A eulogy is a spoken tribute to someone who has died. It tells part of their life and character for the people gathered at a funeral, memorial or celebration of life.
What it means in practice
A eulogy is not required to cover every year or achievement. Listeners remember precise details: a phrase the person used, work they cared about, a repeated kindness or a habit that made everyone roll their eyes. The writer also decides what not to say. A celebrant can write from a family interview, edit a relative's draft or divide the life story between several speakers.
The UK context
Crematorium timings can limit the length, so the funeral director or celebrant should confirm the full service slot. A five-minute tribute usually needs fewer words than people expect because grief changes speaking pace. At a later memorial there may be more time, but several uncoordinated eulogies can repeat facts. One person should see all contributions before the day.
What to check
- Write for the ear. Use names often and keep sentences easy to say in one breath.
- Check dates and family relationships with someone who knows the history.
- Give the speaker a printed copy with large type, page numbers and no awkward page turn at the ending.
Do not confuse it with obituary
A eulogy is spoken at a ceremony. An obituary is a written notice or account published for readers.
Related terms
- Funeral celebrantA funeral celebrant meets the family, writes the service and leads it. Their work may include a eulogy, readings, music, a committal and practical coordination with the funeral director or venue.
- Celebration of lifeA celebration of life is a ceremony or gathering centred on the person who died. It may replace a traditional funeral service or take place later, after a burial or cremation.
- Memorial serviceA memorial service is a ceremony held to remember someone who has died, usually without the body present. It can happen soon after the death, after a private funeral or on a later anniversary.
- Ceremony scriptA ceremony script is the written running text for a ceremony. It normally contains the welcome, story, readings, vows or promises, ritual instructions, introductions and closing words in their planned order.