unequivocal
UK: ˌʌnɪˈkwɪvək(ə)l | US: ˌʌnɪˈkwɪvək(ə)l
adj. clear and unambiguous; leaving no doubt
adj. not open to multiple interpretations
unequivocal = un<not> + equivoc<ambiguous> + al<adjective suffix>
- un: A prefix meaning "not," from Old English un-, of Germanic origin.
- equivoc: Derived from Latin aequivocus (aequi- "equal" + voc- "voice"), meaning "ambiguous" or "of doubtful meaning."
- al: A suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -alis.
Etymology Origin:
The word unequivocal combines the negation prefix un- with equivocal, which traces back to Latin aequivocus ("of equal voice"). The original sense implied ambiguity (speaking with "two voices"), but adding un- flips the meaning to "without ambiguity." This reflects how English repurposes Latin roots through affixation to create precise opposites.
The scientist provided unequivocal evidence to support her theory.
His answer was unequivocal: a firm "no."
The contract terms must be unequivocal to avoid legal disputes.
The judge demanded an unequivocal statement from the witness.
Her leadership style is marked by unequivocal honesty.