1. delayed making a decision or taking action in order to gain time or avoid commitment
Usage: past tense of temporize
2. acted evasively or tried to compromise in order to gain time
Usage: past tense of temporize; often implies diplomatic maneuvering

Examples

• The senator temporized when asked about her position on the controversial bill.
• Rather than give a direct answer, he temporized until the meeting ended.
• The company temporized with the union while secretly preparing for a lockout.
• She temporized for weeks before finally accepting the job offer.
• The diplomat temporized skillfully to avoid escalating the conflict.
• When pressed for details, the witness temporized and gave vague responses.