Definition

A person who avoids giving a direct answer or who changes their position or opinion frequently.

Example

The politician was seen as a tergiversator, often shifting his stance on important issues.

Conversation

Did you notice how he always avoids giving a straight answer?

Yeah, it's like he's a real tergiversator when it comes to tough questions.

Exactly! I wish he would just be honest instead of dodging everything.

Right? It makes conversations so frustrating sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tergiversator is formed from "tergiversari" (meaning to turn one's back) and the suffix "-tor" (meaning one who). The word describes a person who evades or avoids straightforwardness, often by turning away from the truth.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'turns away' ('tergiversari') from the truth — that's why a tergiversator is someone who avoids being straightforward.

Visually Confused Words