ambage

noun am·bage \ˈam-bij\

plural am·ba·ges \am-ˈbā-(ˌ)jēz, ˈam-bi-jəz\

Definition of AMBAGE

archaic : ambiguity, circumlocution —usually used in plural

plural archaic : indirect ways or proceedings

back-formation from Middle English ambages, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin, from ambi- + agere to drive — more at agent

First Known Use: 14th century

Next Word in the Dictionary: ambagiousPrevious Word in the Dictionary: ambachAll Words Near: ambage

What made you want to look up ambage? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears