noun, plural re·dun·dan·cies.
- the state of being redundant.
- superfluous repetition or overlapping, especially of words.
- a redundant thing, part, or amount; superfluity.
- the provision of additional or duplicate systems, equipment, etc., that function in case an operating part or system fails, as in a spacecraft.
- Linguistics.
- the inclusion of more information than is necessary for communication, as in those cars, where both words are marked for plurality.
- the additional, predictable information so included.
- the degree of predictability thereby created.
- Chiefly British.
- the condition or fact of being unemployed; unemployment.
- a layoff.
noun plural -cies
-
- the state or condition of being redundant or superfluous, esp superfluous in one’s job
- (as modifier)a redundancy payment
- excessive proliferation or profusion, esp of superfluity
- duplication of components in electronic or mechanical equipment so that operations can continue following failure of a part
- repetition of information or inclusion of additional information to reduce errors in telecommunication transmissions and computer processing
1610s, from Latin redundantia “an overflowing, superfluity, excess,” from redundare (see redundant).
c.1600; see redundant + -ancy. Sense in employment is from 1931, chiefly British.
Unnecessary repetition in speech or writing. The expression freedom and liberty is redundant.