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circumlocutory

adjective

No English definition recorded for this entry.

L335325 on Wikidata ↗

Wiktionary

Pronunciation: /sɜː.kəm.ləʊˈkjuː.tə.ɹi/ / /sɝ.kəm.loʊˈkjuː.tɚ.i/

adj

Etymology: From circumlocution + -ory; compare Medieval Latin circumlocūtōrius from Classical Latin circumlocūtiō.

  1. Characterised by circumlocution; overly wordy

    1727, Jonathan Swift (attributed), Martinus Scriblerus, or the Art of Sinking In Poetry Periphrase is another great aid to prolixity; being a diffused circumlocutory manner of expressing a known idea, which should be so mysteriously couched, as to give the reader the pleasure of guessing what it is, that the author can possibly mean; and a strange surprise, when he finds it.

    Rachel's talks with the vicar were frequent; and poor little Mrs. William Wylder, who knew not the reason of his visits, fell slowly, and to the good man's entire bewilderment, into a chronic jealousy. It expressed itself enigmatically; it was circumlocutory, sad, and mysterious.