equivocate
UK: ɪˈkwɪvəkeɪt | US: ɪˈkwɪvəkeɪt
vi. To use ambiguous language to conceal the truth or avoid commitment.
vi. To mislead by speaking vaguely or hedging.
equivocate = equi<equal> + voc<voice> + ate<verb suffix>
- equi (from Latin aequus, meaning "equal" or "uniform")
- voc (from Latin vocare, meaning "to call" or "voice")
- ate (a verb-forming suffix indicating action)
Etymology Origin:
The word equivocate originates from the Late Latin aequivocare, meaning "to call by the same name" or "to speak ambiguously." It combines aequi- (equal) and vocare (to call), reflecting the idea of using words with double meanings to avoid clarity. Over time, it evolved in English to specifically denote deceptive or evasive speech. The morphemes logically align with the concept of "equal voices" (i.e., giving multiple interpretations to words).
Politicians often equivocate when pressed for a direct answer.
She refused to equivocate and stated her position clearly.
The suspect equivocated during the interrogation, raising suspicions.
Lawyers are trained not to equivocate in legal documents.
His tendency to equivocate made it hard to trust his promises.