Definition

Describing something that uses too many words or is overly verbose, making it longer than necessary.

Example

The report was too wordy, making it hard to understand the main points.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I just read your essay, and it feels a bit wordy to me.

Really? I thought I was being detailed enough.

Maybe you could cut down some sentences to make it clearer.

That's a good idea; I'll try to make it more concise.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wordy → It is formed from "word" (from Old English "word", meaning a unit of language) and "-y" (a suffix meaning characterized by or full of). The word "wordy" describes something that is characterized by an excessive number of words.

Memory Tip

Think of a piece of writing that is 'full of' ('-y') 'words' — that's why 'wordy' means having too many words.

Visually Confused Words