innuendo
Americannoun
plural
innuendos, innuendoes-
an indirect intimation about a person or thing, especially of a disparaging or a derogatory nature.
- Synonyms:
- imputation, insinuation
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Law.
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a parenthetic explanation or specification in a pleading.
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(in an action for slander or libel) the explanation and elucidation of the words alleged to be defamatory.
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the word or expression thus explained.
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noun
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an indirect or subtle reference, esp one made maliciously or indicating criticism or disapproval; insinuation
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law (in pleading) a word introducing an explanatory phrase, usually in parenthesis
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law
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an explanation of the construction put upon words alleged to be defamatory where the defamatory meaning is not apparent
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the words thus explained
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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.
Cipriani, a self-professed fixer, whistleblower and professional gambler who had been spreading innuendo about Shell on social media, according to court filings in a continuing legal dispute between the men.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026
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 • Mar. 6, 2026
High Court judge Mr Justice Lavender ruled Barton's comments were mainly statements of opinion, but were defamatory by meaning or innuendo.
From BBC • Apr. 9, 2025
These modern sweaters can feature your favorite band, a dabbing Santa, or obscene holiday innuendo, or they may come with 3D plushie elements that ratchet up the tacky factor.
From Slate • Dec. 12, 2024
Threpe was an inveterate gossipmonger with a knack for tasteless innuendo, and I have always had a gift for a catchy tune.
From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss
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.
