prolix
UK: /ˈprəʊ.lɪks/ | US: /ˈproʊ.lɪks/
adj. (of speech or writing) tediously lengthy; excessively wordy
The word prolix originates from Latin prolixus ("extended, copious"), combining pro- (forward) and liquere (to flow). It metaphorically describes speech or writing that "flows forward" excessively, leading to verbosity. The term entered English via Old French prolixe in the late Middle Ages, retaining its core meaning of tedious lengthiness.
The professor's prolix lecture left the students struggling to stay awake.
Legal documents are often criticized for being unnecessarily prolix.
Her prolix emails could easily be condensed into a few bullet points.
The novel's prolix descriptions slowed the pace of the story.
Avoid prolix explanations in technical writing—clarity is key.