\Tau*tol"o*gy\, n. [L. tautologia, Gr. ?: cf. F.
tautologie.] (Rhet.)
A repetition of the same meaning in different words; needless
repetition of an idea in different words or phrases; a
representation of anything as the cause, condition, or
consequence of itself, as in the following lines:
      The dawn is overcast, the morning lowers, And heavily
      in clouds brings on the day.             --Addison.
Syn: Repetition.
Usage: {Tautology}, {Repetition}. There may be frequent
       repetitions (as in legal instruments) which are
       warranted either by necessity or convenience; but
       tautology is always a fault, being a sameness of
       expression which adds nothing to the sense or the
       sound.