= amphiboly, n. 1.

Evasive or misleading language; equivocation, verbal trickery or deception. Also as a count noun: an example of this.

A word or phrase that can be interpreted in more than one way; an ambiguous expression.

An ambiguous statement or expression.

An ambiguity; = amphiboly, n. Obs.

Ambiguous discourse; a sentence which may be construed in two distinct senses; a quibble. (See amphibology, n., which is the earlier and more…

An expression capable of more than one meaning; a play upon words, often of a humorous nature, a pun; wordplay, punning.

The use of an ambiguous or equivocal expression; the word or expression so used.

A double meaning; a word or phrase having a double sense, esp. as used to convey an indelicate meaning.

‘Equivocation; ambiguity’ (Johnson).

An amphibolous construction or phrase.

The quality or condition of being equivocal; also concrete. Something which is equivocal; an equivoque.

= double entendre, n.

An indirect or sarcastic compliment or endorsement. Cf. left-handed, adj. 2d, back-handed, adj. additions. rare.