What does epiloguize mean?
Epiloguize is a literary verb meaning to write or deliver an epilogue — the brief concluding passage that follows the end of a play, novel, or other work. It can also be used more loosely to describe winding up a speech or event with summarizing, reflective remarks. Formed from the noun "epilogue," which traces back through Latin to Greek roots meaning essentially "to say at the end," the word is transparent in structure but uncommon in practice: most writers prefer plain phrases like "write an epilogue" or "conclude." When it does appear, epiloguize lends a deliberately elevated, bookish flavor to prose, often with a hint of irony about authors who cannot resist having the final word. Its most celebrated instance is arguably Shakespeare's own, who stepped forward at the close of The Tempest to speak the play's famous epilogue himself.
To write or deliver an epilogue for a work of literature or drama.
"The author chose to epiloguize, tying up every character's fate in a single reflective page."
To conclude a speech, event, or piece of writing with summarizing or closing remarks.
"The retiring chairman stood to epiloguize after decades of service to the society."
Built on Greek roots meaning "to say at the end," epiloguize is what an author does when they simply cannot resist having the last word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of epiloguize
Epiloguize derives from "epilogue," which entered English in the early 17th century via Latin epilogus from Greek epilogos, formed from epi- ("upon" or "at") and legein/logos ("to speak"/"speech") — literally "a saying at the end." The verb was formed by adding the Latinate suffix -ize. It shares its Greek roots with related "epi-" words such as epigraph, epigram, and epitaph.
How epiloguize is actually used
A rare, somewhat bookish verb; in most modern contexts writers simply use "write an epilogue" or "conclude." It carries a faintly literary, formal connotation.
Easily confused with epiloguize
"Epilogue" is the noun denoting the concluding section itself, while "epiloguize" is the verb describing the act of writing or delivering one.
"Eulogize" means to praise someone highly, especially in speech, whereas "epiloguize" refers to adding or delivering a closing section to a work or performance.