Pleonasm is a rhetorical figure involving the use of more words than necessary to convey meaning, often for emphasis, stylistic flourish, or rhythmic effect, such as “burning fire” or “free gift”; while sometimes criticized as redundant, pleonasm in poetry can heighten emotional intensity, reinforce thematic concerns, or fulfill metrical requirements, and is particularly effective in oral traditions or heightened speech where repetition and amplification enhance memorability and impact, as seen in biblical poetry (“And God saw that it was good, very good”) or Shakespearean invective (“O most lame and impotent conclusion!”).

Redundant expression using more words than necessary. "Free gift" or "past history." Contrast with tautology. Can be error or deliberate emphasis. Use sparingly; often weakens rather than strengthens expression.