adjective
garrulous
GAR-uh-lus/ˈɡærələs/
Excessively talkative, especially about trivial matters.
The garrulous man keeps talking about a biscuit after his companion finishes tea.
Etymology
Latin garrulus comes from garrire, “to chatter.” The English adjective keeps that image of ongoing chatter, emphasizing speech that is excessive or concerned with trivial matters.
In context
And if you were to see the interior of the chapel! resumed the poet, with his garrulous enthusiasm. Carvings everywhere. Tis as thickly clustered as the head of a cabbage!
More examples
- Our garrulous neighbor turns a quick hello into a lengthy update.
- Even the garrulous host falls silent when the music starts.
- I avoid asking my garrulous uncle about his morning errands.
Forms
garrulous
garrulity noun — Excessive talking, especially about unimportant matters.
Similar words
- talkative
- Describes someone who talks readily, without necessarily talking excessively.
- chatty
- Suggests friendly, informal conversation rather than tiresomely excessive talk.
- verbose
- Emphasizes unnecessary words in either speech or writing.