prevaricate

[pri-var-i-keyt] / prɪˈvær ɪˌkeɪt /

VERB

deceive; stretch the truth

Synonyms

STRONG

belie cavil con distort dodge equivocate evade exaggerate fabricate falsify fib garble hedge invent jive lie misrepresent misspeak palter quibble shift shuffle tergiversate

WEAK

beat around the bush beg the question phony up put on

Antonyms

STRONG

be honest confront face meet order tell the truth

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While Mr. Rees is keen to dispel the myths ginned up by imperial writers, he doesn’t prevaricate when the evidence shows that their fears may not have been entirely unfounded.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 10, 2025

That suggests Sir Keir won't prevaricate in offering his own judgement about Sir Laurie Magnus's findings once he himself has them.

From BBC • Sep. 5, 2025

So, why did the three college presidents prevaricate when asked how they would respond to such language?

From Seattle Times • Dec. 14, 2023

On these issues, he does not prevaricate or tell lies.

From Salon • Oct. 7, 2022

I wonder that you should care to prevaricate with me so idly.”

From The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition Vol. 20 (of 25) by Stevenson, Robert Louis

Vocabulary lists containing prevaricate

A Web of Lies

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Fake It 'Til You Make It: Synonyms for "False"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Smoke and Mirrors: The Lingo of Illusion and Deception

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!