E*quiv"o*cate (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Equivocated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Equivocating.] [L. aequivocatus, p. p. of aequivocari to be called by the same name, fr. L. aequivocus: cf. F. 'equivoquer. See Equivocal, a.]
To use words of equivocal or doubtful signification; to express one's opinions in terms which admit of different senses, with intent to deceive; to use ambiguous expressions with a view to mislead; as, to equivocate is the work of duplicity.
All that Garnet had to say for him was that he supposed he meant to equivocate.
Bp. Stillingfleet.
Syn. -- To prevaricate; evade; shuffle; quibble. See Prevaricate.
© Webster 1913.
E*quiv"o*cate (?), v. t.
To render equivocal or ambiguous.
He equivocated his vow by a mental reservation.
Sir G. Buck.
© Webster 1913.