First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
circumlocution
noun cir·cum·lo·cu·tion \ˌsər-kəm-lō-ˈkyü-shən\
: the use of many words to say something that could be said more clearly and directly by using fewer words
Full Definition of CIRCUMLOCUTION
1
: the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea
2
: evasion in speech
— cir·cum·loc·u·to·ry \-ˈlä-kyə-ˌtȯr-ē\ adjective
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Origin of CIRCUMLOCUTION
Middle English circumlocucyon, from Latin circumlocution-, circumlocutio, from circum- + locutio speech, from loqui to speak
Related to CIRCUMLOCUTION
- Synonyms
- equivocation, shuffle, tergiversation
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
Rhymes with CIRCUMLOCUTION
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