verbalism

noun

ver·​bal·​ism ˈvər-bə-ˌli-zəm 

1

a

: a verbal expression : term

b

: phrasing, wording

2

: words used as if they were more important than the realities they represent

the emancipation of science from verbalism

—G. A. L. Sarton

3

a

: a wordy expression of little meaning

b

: verbosity

Synonyms

• articulation
• expression
• formulation
• phrasing
• statement
• utterance
• voice
• wording

Examples of verbalism in a Sentence

the meticulous verbalism of the senator's prepared statement suggests that she knew that it would spark controversy

prose that is lean, uncluttered, and utterly devoid of any trace of verbalism

Recent Examples on the Web

Remaining on stage with gracious verbalism, Batiste first acknowledged the nominees. —Allison Hazel, Essence, 9 June 2021

Word History

Etymology

verbal entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1a