English Explanatory Dictionary

equivocal

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation.
  2. Capable of being ascribed to different motives, or of signifying opposite feelings, purposes, or characters; deserving to be suspected.
  3. Uncertain, as an indication or sign.
noun
  1. A word or expression capable of different meanings; an ambiguous term.

Pronunciation

/əˈkwɪvəkəl/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-equivocal.wav /ɪˈkwɪvək(ə)l/

Word forms

equivocal more equivocal most equivocal æquivocal equivocals

Etymology

From Late Latin aequivocus + -al, from aequus + vocō. By surface analysis, equi- + vocal.

Synonyms

ambiguous indeterminate uncertain doubtful incongruous double entendre equivoque

Antonyms

unequivocal univocal certain

Related words

equivocation equivoque

Derived words

equivocal generation equivocality equivocally equivocalness
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