1. to act insincerely or deceitfully; to equivocate or prevaricate
Usage: archaic; formal
2. to haggle or bargain in a petty way
Usage: archaic

Examples

• The witness paltered when asked direct questions about the incident.
• He paltered with his words, never giving a straight answer.
• The merchant paltered over every penny in the negotiation.
• She felt he had paltered with her trust by withholding important information.
• The politician paltered during the debate, avoiding clear positions on key issues.