innuendo

[in-yoo-en-doh]

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

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of innuendo¹

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”

Word History and Origins

Origin of innuendo¹

C17: from Latin, literally: by hinting, from innuendum, gerund of innuere to convey by a nod, from _in- ² + nuere to nod

Example Sentences

Elsewhere - and I can't believe I'm writing this - there's an entire song filled with playground innuendo.

From BBC

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

Estonia's Tommy Cash, who came third, also kept the innuendo train running, with Espresso Macchiato, a caffeinated disco anthem featuring the unforgettable phrase: "Life is like spaghetti, it's hard until you make it."

From BBC

Automatically qualifying for the final, it's a welcome oasis of calm amidst the steamy sauna sessions, moody goth haircuts and thrusting innuendo.

From BBC

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

Related Words

• insinuation