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What's the word for someone who talks too much?
The word you're looking for
Garrulous describes someone who talks excessively, often in a tedious or unwanted way. This word directly captures the sense that someone talks too much and won't stop.
Other words that fit
Use when the excessive talking is seen as a neutral trait or positive characteristic, rather than annoying or tedious.
Use for a simpler, everyday word for someone who likes to talk a lot; less formal than garrulous.
Use for a casual, friendly way to describe someone who enjoys conversation; implies a lighter tone than garrulous.
Why this word
Garrulous is a formal English word that specifically describes someone who talks excessively, usually with the implication that it is tedious or annoying. While loquacious also means talkative, garrulous carries a clearer sense of criticism and excess. The two words differ subtly: loquacious is more neutral or even flattering (someone who enjoys speaking), while garrulous emphasizes unwanted or tedious talkativeness. In casual everyday English, people rarely use either word—they simply say "talks too much," "talkative," or "chatty." However, in formal writing or formal speech, garrulous is the most precise single word that captures the concept of excessive, often unwanted talking.
In context
- My uncle is so garrulous; he talks for hours at every family dinner without letting anyone else speak.
- The garrulous neighbor dominated the entire conversation at the coffee shop that morning.
- She became known as a garrulous party guest who would bore everyone with endless stories.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- What's the difference between garrulous and loquacious?
- Both mean talkative, but garrulous emphasizes excessive, often tedious talking and sounds critical. Loquacious is more neutral—even positive. Someone can be loquacious without being annoying or unwanted.
- Is garrulous always a negative word?
- Mostly yes. Garrulous implies the talking is excessive, tedious, or unwanted. Loquacious can be neutral or complimentary, depending on context and tone.
- What's a simpler, everyday way to say this?
- In casual English, just say 'talks too much,' 'chatty,' or 'talkative.' These are far more common in daily speech than garrulous.
- Can garrulous describe writing?
- No—garrulous describes a person's speaking habit. For excessive writing or speech style, use verbose instead.