innuendo

American  

[in-yoo-en-doh] / ˌɪn yuˈɛn doʊ /

noun

plural

innuendos, innuendoes

1. an indirect intimation about a person or thing, especially of a disparaging or a derogatory nature.

   Synonyms:

   imputation, insinuation

2. Law.

   1. a parenthetic explanation or specification in a pleading.

   2. (in an action for slander or libel) the explanation and elucidation of the words alleged to be defamatory.

   3. the word or expression thus explained.

---

innuendo British  

/ ˌɪnjʊˈɛndəʊ /

noun

1. an indirect or subtle reference, esp one made maliciously or indicating criticism or disapproval; insinuation

2. law (in pleading) a word introducing an explanatory phrase, usually in parenthesis

3. law

   1. an explanation of the construction put upon words alleged to be defamatory where the defamatory meaning is not apparent

   2. the words thus explained

---

Etymology

Origin of innuendo

First recorded in 1555–65; from Latin: “a hint,” literally, “by signaling,” ablative of innuendum, gerund of innuere “to signal,” equivalent to in- in- ² + nuere “to nod”

Example Sentences

Hannah said she has respected the Kennedy family’s privacy and, like Schlossberg, condemned “self-serving sensationalists trading in gossip, innuendo and speculation.”

From Los Angeles Times

Online fanatics of true crime have parsed through information about the Nancy Guthrie case, filling in the limited details with rumor, innuendo and conspiracy.

From Los Angeles Times

Their recently released correspondence often mixed logistics with innuendo.

From BBC

And by acting on his instincts—with Paramount’s backing—he created a clutch of movies still celebrated for their wit, charm, winking innuendo and sophistication.

From The Wall Street Journal

Online, true crime fanatics have parsed through information about the case — filling in the limited details with rumor, innuendo and sometimes downright conspiracy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• insinuation