succinct

[ suhk-singkt ]

adjective

1. expressed in few words; concise; terse.
2. characterized by conciseness or verbal brevity.
3. compressed into a small area, scope, or compass.
4. Archaic.
   1. drawn up, as by a girdle.
   2. close-fitting.
   3. encircled, as by a girdle.

succinct

/ səkˈsɪŋkt /

adjective

1. marked by brevity and clarity; concise
2. compressed into a small area
3. archaic.
   1. encircled by or as if by a girdle
   2. drawn up tightly; closely fitting

Derived Forms

• sucˈcinctly, adverb
• sucˈcinctness, noun

Other Words From

• suc·cinct·ly adverb
• suc·cinct·ness noun
• un·suc·cinct adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of succinct¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin succinctus, past participle of succingere “to gird, gather up (one's clothes), prepare for action,” equivalent to suc- “under, beneath” ( suc- ) + cing(ere) “to gird, equip” + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of succinct¹

C15: from Latin succinctus girt about, from succingere to gird from below, from sub- from below + cingere to gird

Synonym Study

See concise.

Example Sentences

Put crassly, both were succinct and certain bribes to demographics they had to win, an immediate economic incentive to vote Democratic.

From Slate

Meanwhile, the other signature Harris economic policy, which she was quick to quote on the debate stage, was increasing the tax write-off for small businesses to $50,000, which, even if the lower ends of the income distribution were all entrepreneurs, is neither succinct or immediate.

From Slate

It’s a succinct way of phrasing what the World Series-champion Dodgers accomplished this season, after years of regular-season dominance followed by postseason disappointment.

From Los Angeles Times

Salon recently had the opportunity to connect with Chan for a candid discussion about the standout dishes at his restaurant, the influences that shaped his career and menus, earning Michelin stars, and his succinct advice on sustainability and reducing food waste.

From Salon

The portion used on “60 Minutes” was “more succinct, which allows time for other subjects in a wide ranging 21 minute long segment.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blunt
• concise
• curt
• pithy
• terse