adj

wordy

WDEE

Wordy (adj) means using far more words than necessary; long-winded. Example: “His wordy explanation could have been said in one sentence.”

adj

Using far more words than necessary; long-winded.

"His wordy explanation could have been said in one sentence."

"The report was too wordy and needed heavy editing."

How to use wordy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsing too many words when fewer would do.

Common mistake

Usually a criticism — it implies the writing or speech is padded out unnecessarily.

Common pairings

wordy explanation overly wordy

wordier comparative, wordiest superlative

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Can you complete this real example?

His _____ explanation could have been said in one sentence.

From Old English "wordig," simply "word" plus the adjective ending "-y."

Origin: Old English

Lordy Gordy cordy Jordy

What does “wordy” mean?

The word “wordy” means using far more words than necessary; long-winded. In plain terms, using too many words when fewer would do.

How do you pronounce “wordy”?

“Wordy” is pronounced WDEE (/ˈwɝdi/ in IPA).

How do you use “wordy” in a sentence?

Here is “wordy” used in a sentence: “His wordy explanation could have been said in one sentence.”

What part of speech is “wordy”?

“Wordy” is an adjective.

Where does the word “wordy” come from?

The word “wordy” comes from Old English. From Old English "wordig," simply "word" plus the adjective ending "-y.".