Circumlocution (noun)

The use of many words where fewer would do, especially in a deliberate attempt to be vague or evasive.

Origin:

Late 16th century: from latin circumlocutio(n-), from circum "around" + loqui "speak".

Examples:

  1. The politician's circumlocution made it difficult to understand his position on the issue.
  2. I was annoyed by the customer service representative's use of circumlocution.
  3. His circumlocution was a way to avoid giving a straight answer.
  4. The lawyer's circumlocution made it hard to follow his argument.
  5. The CEO's circumlocution was a sign of his lack of confidence.
Some random words: secretive, sclerotic, misbegotten