palaver
UK: pəˈlɑːvə | US: pəˈlævər
n. 1. prolonged and idle discussion; unnecessary fuss or trouble.
n. 2. (historical) a parley or conference, especially between European traders and indigenous peoples in West Africa.
vi. to talk excessively or pointlessly.
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The word "palaver" originates from the Portuguese "palavra" (meaning "word" or "speech"), which itself derives from Latin "parabola" (comparison, speech). It entered English through interactions between European traders and West African communities in the 18th century, where "palaver" referred to negotiations or discussions. Over time, its meaning shifted to emphasize tedious or trivial talk, reflecting the perceived drawn-out nature of such exchanges. The suffix-like "-ver" is a reinterpretation of the original Portuguese ending, though it coincidentally resembles Latin "videre" (to see), adding a playful layer to its evolution.
The meeting turned into a pointless palaver about office snacks.
Explorers often engaged in palaver with local chiefs to secure safe passage.
Stop palavering and get to the point!
The contract was delayed by weeks of legal palaver.
His speech was mere palaver, lacking any concrete proposals.