India, Jan. 28 -- As you have observed, that lLanguage has a way of capturing human behaviour with surgical precision, and "tergiversate" is a perfect example. Hence, this explains the meaning of a habit for many of us recognise instantly, especially in politics and public life.

The word " tergiversate " refers to avoiding making a clear and crisp decision, to change one's position repeatedly, or to evade giving a direct answer. This often leads to escaping responsibility or controversy. This word is usually used to describe someone who wavers or deliberately dodges commitment.

The word originates from the Latin tergiversari, which refers to "to turn one's back". This word is a mix of tergum (back) and versare (to turn). Over time, the ...