\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. ['e]quivoquer. 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}.

\E*quiv"o*cate\, v. t.
To render equivocal or ambiguous.
      He equivocated his vow by a mental reservation. --Sir
                                               G. Buck.