tergiversate
verb (used without object)
to change repeatedly one's attitude or opinions with respect to a cause, subject, etc.; equivocate.
tergiversation
-
a word derived from
tergiversate.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Another has been the behavior of its distinguished columnists-the lamentation of Mark Sullivan, the oscillation of Dorothy Thompson, the tergiversation of Walter Lippmann.
From Time Magazine Archive
In consequence of this belief the devils became the rivals, indeed the successful rivals, of Jupiter himself in the art of physical tergiversation.
From Elizabethan Demonology by Thomas Alfred Spalding
Our vulgar idea of a party is a week or fortnight of previous discomfort and chaotic tergiversation, and the mistress of it all distracted and worn out with endless cares.
From Pink and White Tyranny A Society Novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe
His tergiversation of mood proves only that there were two Walpoles, not that the Walpole of the romantic enthusiasms was insincere.
From The Art of Letters by Robert Lynd
Sign it if you like; but sign it quickly; for this night brings all tergiversation to an end.
From The Smuggler: (Vol's I-III) A Tale by G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
