equivocal[ē kwiv′ə kəl, i-]
- The definition of equivocal is something having several different meanings.
An example of equivocal is a poem with multiple interpretations.
- that can have more than one interpretation; having two or more meanings; purposely vague, misleading, or ambiguous: an equivocal reply
- uncertain; undecided; doubtful: an equivocal outcome
- suspicious; questionable: equivocal conduct
Origin of equivocal; from Late Latin aequivocus (see equivocate) and amp; -al
- Open to two or more interpretations and often intended to conceal the truth. See Synonyms at ambiguous.
- Characterized by a mixture of opposing elements and therefore questionable or uncertain: Evidence of the drug's effectiveness has been equivocal.
Origin of equivocalFrom Late Latin aequivocus : Latin aequi-, equi- + Latin vocāre, to call; see wekw- in Indo-European roots.
- e·quiv′o·cal′i·ty , e·quiv′o·cal·ness
(comparative more equivocal, superlative most equivocal)
- Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation; ambiguous; uncertain.
- equivocal words; an equivocal sentence
- Capable of being ascribed to different motives, or of signifying opposite feelings, purposes, or characters; deserving to be suspected.
- His actions are equivocal.
- Uncertain, as an indication or sign; doubtful, incongruous.