periphrase

1 of 2

noun

peri·​phrase
ˈperəˌfrāz

periphrase

2 of 2

verb

"

transitive verb

: to express by periphrasis

intransitive verb

: to use periphrasis

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle French, from Latin periphrasis

Verb

French périphraser, from Middle French periphraser, from periphrase

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near periphrase

Cite this Entry

“Periphrase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periphrase. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!