equivocate
[ ih-kwiv-uh-keyt ]
/ ɪˈkwɪv əˌkeɪt /
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verb (used without object), e·quiv·o·cat·ed, e·quiv·o·cat·ing.
to use ambiguous or unclear expressions, usually to avoid commitment or in order to mislead; prevaricate or hedge: When asked directly for his position on disarmament, the candidate only equivocated.
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Origin of equivocate
OTHER WORDS FROM equivocate
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use equivocate in a sentence
We can equivocate all we want about the Washington Nationals’ lineup and whether the additions of Josh Bell and Kyle Schwarber — both hoping for rebound years — are enough to protect Trea Turner and Juan Soto.
Jon Lester strengthens the Nationals’ biggest strength — and gives them an undeniable identity|Barry Svrluga|January 19, 2021|Washington Post
British Dictionary definitions for equivocate
equivocate
/ (ɪˈkwɪvəˌkeɪt) /
verb
(intr) to use vague or ambiguous language, esp in order to avoid speaking directly or honestly; hedge
Derived forms of equivocate
equivocatingly, adverbequivocator, nounequivocatory, adjectiveWord Origin for equivocate
C15: from Medieval Latin aequivocāre, from Late Latin aequivocus ambiguous, equivocal
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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