Rigmarole

Rigmarole

ˈriɡ(ə)məˌrōl

Noun

  • A lengthy and complicated procedure.
  • A long, rambling story or statement.

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Example Sentences

“During the filibuster, the senator went on and on with a rambling rigmarole.”

“The rigmarole involved with becoming a certified pilot is complicated, but it’s worthwhile.”

“I’m worried that I went into a rigmarole during my interview because I was so nervous.”

Word Origin

English, mid-18th century

Why this word?

During the Middle Ages, a “ragman roll” was a collection of documents that Scottish nobles used to declare their loyalty to King Edward I of England. The documents were long and complex, similar in meaning to the modern word they became: “rigmarole.”

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Learn a new word Démarche

dāˈmärSH