circuitous

UK: /sɜːˈkjuːɪtəs/ | US: /sɚˈkjuːɪtəs/

Definition

  1. adj. 1. (of a route or journey) longer than the most direct way; roundabout.

  2. adj. 2. (of language or reasoning) indirect and unnecessarily lengthy.

Structure
circuit <circle, path>ous <adjective suffix>
Etymology

circuitous = circuit<circle, path> + ous<adjective suffix>

  • circuit <circle, path>: From Latin circuitus ("a going around"), from circum ("around") + ire ("to go").
  • ous <adjective suffix>: From Latin -osus, indicating "full of" or "having the quality of."

Etymology Origin:
The word circuitous traces back to Latin circuitus, combining circum (around) and ire (to go). It originally described a circular or winding path, later extending metaphorically to describe indirect speech or reasoning. The suffix -ous reinforces its adjectival form, emphasizing the trait of being "full of twists and turns."

Examples

  1. The hikers took a circuitous route to avoid the steep cliffs.

  2. His circuitous explanation confused everyone in the meeting.

  3. The river’s circuitous flow made the journey longer.

  4. She gave a circuitous answer to avoid revealing the truth.

  5. The detective followed a circuitous path to solve the mystery.