Word of the Day
September 5, 2023
Prevaricate
To speak or write evasively; to equivocate; to behave in an evasive or indecisive manner, usually to delay; to utter or say something in an evasive manner. Synonym: to lie.
From Latin 'praevaricare' meaning to walk crookedly or to straddle, from 'prae-' (before) + 'varicare' (to straddle), from 'varus' (bent, knock-kneed).
Usage Examples
- Joe Biden prevaricated when answering questions regarding his knowledge of his son Hunter's business dealings.
- Politicians often prevaricate when confronted with direct questions about policy failures.
- The witness prevaricated throughout the deposition, never giving a straight answer.
From the Show
Kim Monson introduced prevaricate as the Word of the Day while discussing evasive political speech. She connected the concept directly to Joe Biden’s shifting statements about Hunter Biden’s business dealings, noting how the word applies perfectly to politicians who speak evasively rather than directly. The theme of political honesty threaded through both guest segments. Learn more in Listen to the full episode.