Category:Periphrase

Per"i*phrase, n. Etym: [l. periphrasis, gr. périphrase. See phrase.] (rhet.)

Defn: the use of more words than are necessary to express the idea; a Roundabout, or indirect, way of speaking; circumlocution. "to Describe by enigmatic periphrases." De quincey.

Periphrase Per"i*phrase, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Periphrased; p. pr. & vb. n. Periphrasing.] Etym: [cf. F. périphraser.]

Defn: to express by periphrase or circumlocution.

Periphrase Per"i*phrase, v. i.

Defn: to use circumlocution.