The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Encomium \En*co"mi*um\, n.; pl. Encomiums. [NL., fr. Gr. ? (a
   song) chanted in a Bacchic festival in praise of the god; ?
   in + ? a jovial festivity, revel. See Comedy.]
   Warm or high praise; panegyric; strong commendation.
   [1913 Webster]

         His encomiums awakened all my ardor.     --W. Irving.

   Syn: See Eulogy.
        [1913 Webster]