Equivocal

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /əˈkwɪvÉ™kÉ™l/
• US IPA: /ɪˈkwɪvÉ™k(É™)l/
• Hyphenation: equivo + cal

Alternative forms

• æquivocal rare

Origin

From Late Latin aequivocus, from aequus + vocō.

Full definition of equivocal

Noun

1. A word or expression capable of different meanings; an ambiguous term; an equivoque.

Synonyms

• double entendre

Adjective

1. Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation; ambiguous; uncertain.equivocal words; an equivocal sentence
• JeffreyFor the beauties of Shakespeare are not of so dim or equivocal a nature as to be visible only to learned eyes.
2. Capable of being ascribed to different motives, or of signifying opposite feelings, purposes, or characters; deserving to be suspected.His actions are equivocal.
• Miltonequivocal repentances
3. Uncertain, as an indication or sign; doubtful, incongruous.
• BurkeHow equivocal a test.

Synonyms

• ambiguous, doubtful, uncertain, indeterminate

Antonyms

• unequivocal
• univocal

Derived terms

• equivocalness

Related terms

• equivocation
• equivoque