insinuating

American  

[in-sin-yoo-ey-ting] / ɪnˈsɪn yuˌeɪ tɪŋ /

adjective

1. tending to instill doubts, distrust, etc.; suggestive.

   an insinuating letter.

2. gaining favor or winning confidence by artful means.

   an insinuating manner.

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Other Word Forms

• half-insinuating adjective
• half-insinuatingly adverb
• insinuatingly adverb
• preinsinuatingly adverb
• uninsinuating adjective

Etymology

Origin of insinuating

First recorded in 1585–95; insinuat(e) + -ing ²

Example Sentences

He previously noted that the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics were a “guiding star” for his retirement, insinuating that he would likely hang up his racket following the games.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 12, 2026

I have lived, Jhabvala said, like “a cuckoo forever insinuating myself into others’ nests.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

This fits in with Kennedy's long-standing history of eugenics-tinged notions that disease is a good thing, falsely claiming that it strengthens the gene pool, and insinuating that it makes survivors stronger.

From Salon • May 27, 2025

The articles highlighted by Brown criticise her hair, face, body and style, with some insinuating she looks much older than she is.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2025

Even with his machines humming and advertisements for his products insinuating themselves into all aspects of American life, Duke wasn’t satisfied with his market share.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson