Overtalkative

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Exhibiting a strong tendency to engage in lengthy and often excessive speech during interactions
2. Characterized by speaking more than usual, often to the point of overwhelming others
3. Tending to hold conversations that are lengthy and sometimes unnecessary

Etymology: "Overtalkative" is a straightforward formation: the prefix "over-", meaning excessive or beyond the proper degree, attached to "talkative," which describes someone inclined to talk a great deal. Together they describe a person who talks more than is comfortable for those around them. The prefix "over-" has been productive in English for centuries, letting speakers build quick judgments like "overeager," "overcooked," or "overdressed" from existing adjectives. "Talkative" itself is an older English formation from "talk" with the suffix "-ative," meaning inclined to or characterized by the action named. Pairing the two gives the sense of talkativeness pushed past the point of pleasantry.

Synonyms: talkative, loquacious, garrulous

Antonyms: reserved, taciturn, quiet