circumlocution
|cir-cum-lo-cu-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌsɜrkəmloʊˈkjuʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌsɜːkəmˌləʊˈkjuːʃən/
indirect expression
Etymology
'circumlocution' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'circumlocutio,' where 'circum-' meant 'around' and 'loqui' meant 'to speak.'
'circumlocutio' transformed into the Old French word 'circonlocution,' and eventually became the modern English word 'circumlocution' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'speaking around,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'using many words to be vague or evasive.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the use of many words where fewer would do, especially in a deliberate attempt to be vague or evasive.
His circumlocution made it difficult to understand his point.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41