English Dictionary

Definition of “equivocal”

equivocal (ɪˈkwɪvəkəl Pronunciation for equivocal

Definitions

adjective

  1. capable of varying interpretations; ambiguous
  2. deliberately misleading or vague; evasive
  3. of doubtful character or sincerity; dubious

Derived Forms

eˈquivocally adverb
eˌquivoˈcality, eˈquivocalness noun

Word Origin

C17: from Late Latin aequivocus, from Latin equi- + vōx voice

Example Sentences Including 'equivocal'

As a source in Foreign Affairs explained, Canada's position is consistent, if equivocal.
Globe and Mail (2003)
But they had power, and could only be handled with an equivocal joke.
Shah, Idries Kara Kush
He found that his feelings for Veronica were, as they always had been, equivocal but that distrust now predominated.
Dare Call It Treason
I hope it worked, though the effect of surgery on a Scottish brogue must have be equivocal at best.
Jim Leavesley, George Biro THE MEDICAL MYSTERIES E-OMNIBUS (2001)
Nall had branched out independently, in the face of the strongest, least equivocal briefing Gleed had ever given.
Hilton, John Buxton Passion in the Peak
The NSW Historic Houses Trust says some of White's closest friends were equivocal about the museum plan.
The Australian (2004)
Third, scientists should omit equivocal material that is not central to their argument, as it may distract attention from the main evidence.
New Scientist (1999)
`Personally, I think that the public mood on this is a little more equivocal than people suggest," said Milburn.
Times, Sunday Times (2005)
`Public opinion prior to the introduction of the London congestion charge was equivocal.
Times, Sunday Times (2005)

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