sesquipedalian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌsɛskwɪpɪˈdeɪliən/
KK: /sɛskwɪpɪˈdeɪliən/
adjective
Definition
Describing a style of speaking or writing that uses long and complex words.
Example
His sesquipedalian speech made it difficult for the audience to understand his main point.
Conversation
Have you read that new book by the author who always uses sesquipedalian language?
Yeah, I noticed that! It's like they want to impress us with big words.
Exactly! Sometimes I feel like I need a dictionary just to understand it.
Same here! It can be fun, but it definitely slows down my reading.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
polysyllabic
verbose
grandiloquent
Antonyms
concise
simple
terse
noun
Definition
A word that is very long, often used to describe long or complex words.
Example
The professor's lecture was filled with sesquipedalian terms that confused the students.
Conversation
Have you ever heard someone use a really long word in a conversation?
Yeah, I find it amusing, especially when they throw in a sesquipedalian just to sound smart.
Exactly! It’s funny how some people think using big words makes them look better.
Root Explanation
Sesquipedalian is formed from "sesqui-" (meaning one and a half) and "pedalis" (meaning of the foot). The term describes a word that is a foot and a half long, or more generally, refers to long words or the use of long words.
Memory Tip
Think of 'one and a half' ('sesqui-') feet in length to remember that 'sesquipedalian' refers to long words.
Visually Confused Words
unsesquipedalian