adj.
Pronunciation: ' v ā g
Function: adjective
Inflected Form: vagu · er ; vagu · est
Etymology: Middle French, from Latin vagus, literally, wandering
Date: 1548
1 a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms < vague accusations> b : not having a precise meaning <a vague term of abuse>
2 a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : INDISTINCT <only a vague notion of what's needed> also : SLIGHT <a vague hint of a thickening waistline> <hasn't the vaguest idea> b : not clearly felt or sensed : somewhat subconscious <a vague longing>
3 : not thinking or expressing one's thoughts clearly or precisely < vague about dates and places>
4 : lacking expression : VACANT < vague eyes> <a vague stare>
5 : not sharply outlined : HAZY <met by vague figures with shaded torchlights ― Earle Birney>
synonyms see OBSCURE
– vague · ly adverb
– vague · ness noun