Definition of turgid

The word "turgid" originally comes from the Latin word "turgidus", which means "swollen" or "distended". In botany, the term "turgid" is used to describe a plant's cells, which are full of water and have firm walls, making the plant appear rigid or swollen. The word "turgid" as we use it today, however, has a broader meaning. In scientific contexts, "turgid" is often used to describe anything that is overly full, swollen, or bloated. For example, a turgid river may be overflowing its banks due to heavy rains or snowmelt. Outside of scientific contexts, "turgid" is often used as a literary device to describe something that is excessively full, elaborate, or exaggerated. For example, a turgid description may be one that is overly detailed or verbose, with superfluous language that doesn't add anything to the overall meaning. Interestingly, the negative connotations associated with the word "turgid" have led it to be used in a satirical or humorous way to describe things that are overly complex, convoluted, or bloated. This use of the term is often seen in political satire, where "turgid" may be used to describe legislative proposals or political discourse that is overly elaborate and lacking in clarity or simplicity.