adjective
voluble
VAHL-yuh-bul/ˈvɑːljəbl/
Speaking easily and at length.
Our voluble neighbor always has another story to tell us.
Etymology
Something voluble originally turned or rolled with ease. Applied to speech, that easy motion became a fluent, rapid flow of words—the basis of the talkative sense.
In context
Where William Jr. had been voluble, charismatic, [music] and almost constitutionally incapable of restraining his enthusiasm, Philip was reticent, private
More examples
- She becomes more voluble when the conversation turns to gardening.
- He gives a voluble account of his weekend adventures.
- Even the usually voluble host falls silent at the news.
Forms
voluble · more voluble · most voluble
volubility noun — The quality of speaking easily and at length.
volubly adverb — In a fluent and freely talkative manner.
Similar words
- talkative
- Emphasizes talking a lot, without necessarily speaking fluently.
- fluent
- Emphasizes smooth, easy expression rather than length of speech.
- loquacious
- Emphasizes abundant talk, sometimes suggesting more than listeners want.