Temporization
Also found in: Legal 0.01 sec.
temporize (tmp-rz)
intr.v. temporized, temporizing, temporizes
1. To act evasively in order to gain time, avoid argument, or postpone a decision: "Colonial officials . . . ordered to enforce unpopular enactments, tended to temporize, to find excuses for evasion" (J.H. Parry).
2. To engage in discussions or negotiations, especially so as to achieve a compromise or gain time.
3. To yield to current circumstances or necessities; act to suit the time.
[French temporiser, from Old French, from Medieval Latin temporizre, to pass one's time, from Latin tempus, tempor-, time.]
temporization (-pr--zshn) n.
temporizer n.