ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷+lōˈkyüshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin circumlocution-, circumlocutio (from circum- + locutio speaking, speech, from locutus, past participle of loqui to speak), translation of Greek periphrasis — more at periphrasis
1.
a. : the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea : indirect or roundabout expression
the gift of the pamphleteer, who cuts through academic circumlocution — Vera M. Dean
b. : evasion in speech
a preference for circumlocution rather than forthrightness
2. : an instance of circumlocution
• cir·cum·lo·cu·tion·al | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷shən ə l, -shnəl or cir·cum·lo·cu·tion·ary -shəˌnerē, -ri adjective