Pronunciation: cir-cum-lo-cu'-tion
Alternate Spelling: L. “talking around”
Latin Synonyms: the figure of ambage
As the name implies, "talking around" something, usually by supplying a descriptive phrase in place of a name (=periphrasis).
Laertes, urging Ophelia to keep clear of Hamlet, refers to her virginity metaphorically through a circumlocation: ...Or lose your heart, or your chaste treasure open To his unmast'red importunity.