What does redundant mean?
Redundant describes something that is unnecessary, especially because it repeats information or duplicates something already stated. Writers use the term to identify passages, explanations, or details that add no new meaning and may distract the reader or waste space. Redundancy can also describe a surplus of resources or personnel, as when a business makes several jobs redundant. The word is common in formal, professional, and editorial contexts, and it generally carries a critical implication: the extra material is not merely optional but avoidable and potentially inefficient. It can sometimes sound blunt, so neutral expressions such as “repetitive” or “no longer required” may be preferred when discussing staffing changes.
adjectiveUnnecessary because it repeats information or duplicates something already present. It can also mean present in excess of what is needed.
- Unnecessary because it repeats information or duplicates something already present.
- Present in greater quantity or number than is needed, especially as personnel or resources.
"The report was clear and persuasive without including redundant explanations."
"The two paragraphs contain redundant descriptions of the same event."
"The company made several positions redundant as part of its restructuring."
Redundant comes from a Latin word meaning “to overflow,” reflecting an original sense of having more than is needed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of redundant
The word comes through English from Latin redundare, meaning “to overflow” or “be in excess.” Its prefix re- and the root undare are related to Latin unda, “wave” or “water,” giving the original sense of overflowing water. The modern meaning developed when something was regarded as surplus to what was actually needed and then, by extension, unnecessarily repetitive.
Related word forms
How redundant is actually used
In general use, the word often conveys criticism or lack of efficiency. In business and institutional contexts, especially in the phrase “make positions redundant,” it can euphemistically mean dismiss employees.
Easily confused with redundant
Abundant means plentiful or existing in large quantities, whereas redundant means present unnecessarily or in excess of what is required.