innuendo
Americannoun
plural
innuendos, innuendoes-
an indirect intimation about a person or thing, especially of a disparaging or a derogatory nature.
- Synonyms:
- imputation, insinuation
-
Law.
-
a parenthetic explanation or specification in a pleading.
-
(in an action for slander or libel) the explanation and elucidation of the words alleged to be defamatory.
-
the word or expression thus explained.
-
noun
-
an indirect or subtle reference, esp one made maliciously or indicating criticism or disapproval; insinuation
-
law (in pleading) a word introducing an explanatory phrase, usually in parenthesis
-
law
-
an explanation of the construction put upon words alleged to be defamatory where the defamatory meaning is not apparent
-
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
An Alibaba Group spokesperson told AFP "the assertions and innuendos in the article are completely false".
From Barron's
He used innuendoes to refer to money, on one occasion messaging Gill: "I've received all promised Xmas gifts and requested five more postcards for your kind help next week during the debate."
From BBC
What’s more, he vows to reopen an investigation into the death of Laius, the former leader who died 34 years ago under circumstances that have allowed rumor and innuendo to fester.
From Los Angeles Times
He talked after practice Wednesday about how he was unaware of the rumors and innuendo surrounding his famous teammate and father.
From Los Angeles Times
As Richlin handed down his ruling, he referred to the indictment as “quite extensive,” and said, “the court does believe there is substantial evidence, lengthy evidence, this is not innuendo in the indictment.”
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
