Per"i*phrase (?), n. [L. periphrasis, Gr. , fr. to think about, to be expressed periphrastically; + to speak: cf. F. p'eriphrase. See Phrase.] 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.
© Webster 1913.
Per"i*phrase, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Periphrased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Periphrasing.] [Cf. F. p'eriphraser.]
To express by periphrase or circumlocution.
© Webster 1913.
Per"i*phrase, v. i.
To use circumlocution.
© Webster 1913.