Ambage – Definition & Meaning

The English language is full of unique and interesting words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. One such word is “ambage.” This word has an intriguing sound that makes it stand out from other words. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of ambage.

Definitions

Ambage is a noun that refers to a roundabout or indirect way of speaking or writing. It can also mean an ambiguous or obscure statement that is difficult to understand.

Origin

The word “ambage” comes from the Latin word “ambages,” which means “a circuitous route” or “a way around.” The word was first used in the English language in the 16th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, ambage means “a circuitous or indirect way of speaking or writing.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “an indirect or roundabout way of expressing something.” Collins Dictionary defines ambage as “an indirect or roundabout way of speaking or writing, especially to conceal the truth.”

Associations

Ambage is often associated with deception, evasion, or lack of clarity. It is commonly used to describe someone who is being deliberately vague or evasive in their speech or writing.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of ambage include circumlocution, equivocation, obfuscation, and prevarication.

Antonyms

Antonyms of ambage include clarity, directness, straightforwardness, and simplicity.

The same root words

Ambage shares the same root word as the English word “ambiguity,” which means the quality of being open to more than one interpretation or meaning.

Example Sentences

1. The politician’s speech was full of ambage, making it difficult to understand his true intentions.
2. The lawyer used ambage to avoid answering the prosecutor’s questions directly.
3. The writer’s use of ambage in his novel added an air of mystery and intrigue to the story.
4. The teacher criticized the student’s essay for its excessive use of ambage and lack of clarity.
5. The CEO’s ambage in his company’s financial report raised suspicions among the shareholders.