redundancy

[ ri-duhn-duhn-see ]

noun

, plural re·dun·dan·cies.

1. the state of being redundant.
2. superfluous repetition or overlapping, especially of words.
3. a redundant thing, part, or amount; superfluity.
4. the provision of additional or duplicate systems, equipment, etc., that function in case an operating part or system fails, as in a spacecraft.
5. Linguistics.
   1. the inclusion of more information than is necessary for communication, as in those cars, where both words are marked for plurality.
   2. the additional, predictable information so included.
   3. the degree of predictability thereby created.
6. Chiefly British.
   1. the condition or fact of being unemployed; unemployment.
   2. a layoff.

redundancy

/ rɪˈdʌndənsɪ /

noun

1. 1. the state or condition of being redundant or superfluous, esp superfluous in one's job
   2. ( as modifier )

      a redundancy payment

2. excessive proliferation or profusion, esp of superfluity
3. duplication of components in electronic or mechanical equipment so that operations can continue following failure of a part
4. repetition of information or inclusion of additional information to reduce errors in telecommunication transmissions and computer processing

redundancy

1. Unnecessary repetition in speech or writing. The expression freedom and liberty is redundant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of redundancy¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin redundantia “an overflowing, excess,” derivative of redundāns “overflowing, abounding”; redundant

Example Sentences

As for future water recycling projects, Winter said she thinks Los Angeles should focus on developing various smaller-scale facilities to ensure redundancy, rather than planning to rely on a large centralized system that she argues would be vulnerable to failure due to an earthquake or other hazards.

From Los Angeles Times

Last month, the firm said it would lay off around 17,000 workers, with the first redundancy notices expected to be issued in mid-November.

From BBC

The company is also moving ahead with plans to lay off around 17,000 workers, with the first redundancy notices expected to be issued in mid-November.

From BBC

But unions have claimed the university failed to consult them properly over the redundancy plans or provide detailed reasons for them.

From BBC

It is planning to cut the jobs through a voluntary redundancy scheme.

From BBC

Related Words

• attrition