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
That which originates in the purest patriotism, will be termed an unworthy tergiversation; but the reward of these great and good men will be found in their own breasts.
From The Idler in France by Marguerite, Countess of Blessington
These peremptory tripartite brethren arrived at Greenwich, wishing to aggrandize themselves by indulging in exemplary relaxation, indicatory of implacable detestation of integral tergiversation and exoteric intrigue.
From 1001 Questions and Answers on Orthography and Reading by B. A. Hathaway
The pension of three hundred a year obtained for him of the crown by his influential friends was not the reward of baseness or of political tergiversation.
From Harper's New Monthly Magazine, vol 1-98, 1850-1899 None by Various (magazine) Harper
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
