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Definition of circuitous

circuitous

/sɜːrˈkjuː.ɪ.təs/
cir · cu · i · tous
Adverb:circuitously
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circuitous Lexical Profile

circuitous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Longer than the most direct way; winding or indirect (of a route or journey).

Example

"Because the main bridge was closed for repairs, the bus had to take a circuitous route through the countryside."

2

Not straightforward or direct in speech, reasoning, or action; overly complicated or evasive.

Example

"The spokesperson gave a circuitous explanation that avoided addressing the core financial issue."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

circlet
circuit
circuit breaker
circuitous
circuitously
circuitry
circular

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Medieval Latin circuitosus, from Latin circuitus ('a going around'), itself derived from circum ('around') and ire ('to go').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Circuitous. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/circuitous
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