periphrase Meaning, Definition & Usage

Per"i*phrase noun
Etymology
L. periphrasis, Gr. , fr. to think about, to be expressed periphrastically; + to speak: cf. F. périphrase. See Phrase.
Definitions
  1. (Rhet.) 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.
Per"i*phrase transitive verb
Etymology
Cf. F. périphraser.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Periphrased ; present participle & verbal noun Periphrasing
Definitions
  1. To express by periphrase or circumlocution.
Per"i*phrase intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To use circumlocution.

Webster 1913