Ambiguous

Pronunciation

• IPA: /æmˈbɪɡjuÉ™s/

Origin

From Latin ambiguus ("moving from side to side, of doubtful nature"), from ambigere ("to go about, wander, doubt"), from ambi- ("around, about, on both sides") + agere ("to drive, move").

Full definition of ambiguous

Adjective

1. Open to multiple interpretations.The politician was criticized for his ambiguous statements and lack of precision.
2. Vague and unclear.He gave an ambiguous answer.
3. (obsolete, of persons) Hesitant; uncertain; not taking sides.
• 1662 Thomas SalusburyAnd forasmuch as in this same question I am ambiguous, and Simplicius is resolute....

Synonyms

• equivocal

Antonyms

• unambiguous
• precise

Related terms

• ambiguity
• ambiguate
• ambiguation
• disambiguation