Definition: prevarication

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Source: WordNet (r) 1.7 

prevarication
     n 1: a statement that deviates from or perverts the truth [syn: lie]
     2: intentionally vague or ambiguous [syn: equivocation, evasiveness]
     3: the deliberate act of deviating from the truth [syn: lying,
         fabrication]

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) 

Prevarication \Pre*var`i*ca"tion\, n. [L. praevaricatio: cf. F.
   pr['e]varication.]
   1. The act of prevaricating, shuffling, or quibbling, to
      evade the truth or the disclosure of truth; a deviation
      from the truth and fair dealing.

            The august tribunal of the skies, where no
            prevarication shall avail.            --Cowper.

   2. A secret abuse in the exercise of a public office.

   3. (Law)
      (a) (Roman Law) The collusion of an informer with the
          defendant, for the purpose of making a sham
          prosecution.
      (b) (Common Law) A false or deceitful seeming to undertake
          a thing for the purpose of defeating or destroying it.
          --Cowell.