Voluble
VOL-yuh-buhl
/ˈvɑːl.jə.bəl/
Speaking or spoken incessantly and fluently.
Highlights speed and effortless flow of speech, often with rapid rhythm.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'volubilis' (easily turned or rolled), from 'volvere' (to roll). Words literally 'roll off the tongue' of a voluble person.
Word relationships
- glib: 'Glib' implies superficiality or insincerity; 'voluble' merely emphasizes rapid fluency.
- loquacious: 'Loquacious' stresses talking a lot; 'voluble' stresses rapid, rolling fluency.
- taciturn: Disinclined to talk.
- inarticulate: Unable to express speech fluently.
Commonly confused with
- valuable: 'Valuable' means worth a lot; 'voluble' means speaking rapidly.
Word family
- volubility (noun): Rapid, fluent talkativeness.
- volubly (adverb): In a rapid, fluent manner.
Collocations
- voluble speaker
- voluble advocate
- voluble debate
- voluble style
Idioms & expressions
- rapid-fire speech
- smooth-talking
Example sentences
- "The voluble tour guide rattled off centuries of city history without taking a breather." Travel Memoir
Memory hook
Voluble = Words roll out at high volume like a rolling stone. Voluble = Rolling words.
When not to use
Do not use to describe slow, hesitant speech even if it goes on for a long time.
Fun facts
- 'Volume' (of a book) also comes from 'volvere', referring to ancient rolled scrolls.
Related words
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