A word or phrase that has two or more meanings, or a deliberate ambiguity used to confuse or deceive.
From French 'équivoque,' from Latin 'equivocus.' This is an older English variant of 'equivocation,' used especially in literary and philosophical contexts since the 16th century.
In poetry and riddles, equivoques are treasured tools—think of the witches in Macbeth promising the king he won't be defeated 'until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane,' which sounds impossible until soldiers camouflage themselves with branches.
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