Whats the word to describe an unncessary word??

Whats the word to describe an unncessary word?? e.g. the word female in 'female widow'
Not sure if thats a good example but its all i could think of!! I once knew it but have forgotten!! Hope somebody can shed some light! x

[buggles]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

Whats the word to describe an unncessary word?? e.g. the word female in 'female widow'
Not sure if thats a good example but its all i could think of!! I once knew it but have forgotten!! Hope somebody can shed some light! x

I think the word is "tautology".
You can also say that the "female" part of your example is redundant.

Buggles(not a teacher)

[banderas]

Originally Posted by buggles

I think the word is "tautology".
You can also say that the "female" part of your example is redundant.

Buggles(not a teacher)

Just wanted to say thank you for "tautology".