ambages

American  

[am-bey-jeez] / æmˈbeɪ dʒiz /

noun

Archaic.

1. winding, roundabout paths or ways.

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Etymology

Origin of ambages

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin ambāgēs (plural) “circuits,” equivalent to amb(i)- ambi- + -āg- (combining form of agere “to move”) + -ēs plural ending; cf. indagate

Example Sentences

There should be ambages in such a matter.

From The Belton Estate by Trollope, Anthony

Tush, tush, my lord! let goe these ambages, And in plaine tearmes acquaint her with your loue.

From The Spanish Tragedie by Kyd, Thomas

These are but ambages to drive of time, And linger Justice from her purposed end.

From Sir John Oldcastle by Shakespeare (spurious and doubtful works)

There is a little affectation sometimes in Mr Fuseli's writing of Ciceronic ambages, that is really injurious to the good sense and just thoughts, which would without this display, come free, open, and with power.

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine - Volume 54, No. 338, December 1843 by Various

He had not inquired, he had not dared to inquire how the law stood, but he knew that the law's uncertainties were proverbial and its ambages beyond telling.

From Ovington's Bank by Weyman, Stanley J.