Per″i‐phrase (?), n. [L. periphrasis, Gr. �, fr. � to think about, to be expressed periphrastically; � + � to speak: cf. F. périphrase. See Phrase.] (Rhet.) The use of more words than are necessary to express the idea; a roundabout, or indirect, way of speaking; circumlocution. “To describe by enigmatic periphrases.” De Quincey.
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Webster's Dictionary 1913
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, C. & G. Merriam Co., 1913.