belabor
UK: bɪˈleɪbə | US: bɪˈleɪbər
vt. 1. To argue or elaborate (a subject) in excessive detail.
vt. 2. To attack or criticize verbally.
vt. 3. To beat severely; to assail physically (archaic).
belabor = be<intensive prefix> + labor<work>
- be (intensive prefix, from Old English "be-", meaning "thoroughly" or "excessively")
- labor (from Latin "labor", meaning "work" or "toil")
Etymology Origin:
The word "belabor" originated in the 16th century, combining the Old English intensive prefix "be-" (indicating excess) with the Latin-derived "labor." Initially, it meant "to work hard at" or "to beat physically," reflecting the literal sense of labor. Over time, the meaning shifted toward verbal overemphasis or criticism, retaining the connotation of excessive effort. The evolution mirrors how physical exertion metaphorically extends to verbal or intellectual overdoing.
The professor belabored the point until the students grew restless.
Critics belabored the film for its lack of originality.
In his speech, he belabored every minor detail, losing the audience's interest.
The boxer belabored his opponent with relentless punches.
She belabored the report with unnecessary statistics.