ambiguous
- Open to more than one interpretation, or unclear in meaning.
- Difficult to classify or place in a single category.
In a sentence
- The contract's wording was so ambiguous that both parties interpreted it differently.
- Her smile was ambiguous—it could have meant delight or quiet contempt.
Usage note. Do not confuse 'ambiguous' (multiple interpretations) with 'ambivalent' (conflicting feelings); they describe different kinds of uncertainty.
Where it comes from
English ambiguous · entered English 16th c.
From Latin 'ambiguus', meaning 'moving from side to side' or 'doubtful', derived from 'ambigere' ('to wander around'), combining 'ambi-' (both sides) and 'agere' (to drive). Entered English in the 16th century.