insinuation [in-sin-yoo-ey -shuh n]
Examples Word Origin
See more synonyms for insinuation on Thesaurus.com an indirect or covert suggestion or hint, especially of a derogatory nature: She made nasty insinuations about her rivals. covert or artful suggestion or hinting, as of something implied: His methods of insinuation are most ingenious. subtle or artful instillment into the mind. the art or power of stealing into the affections and pleasing; ingratiation: He made his way by flattery and insinuation. Archaic a slow winding, worming, or stealing in. Obsolete an ingratiating act or speech. Show More
Origin of insinuation First recorded in
1520–30, insinuation is from the
Latin word
insinuātion- (stem of
insinuātiō ). See
insinuate ,
-ion Related forms pre·in·sin·u·a·tion , noun Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for insinuation Contemporary Examples of insinuation But the insinuation that it contains an inherent nefarious motive is simply a means of dismissing the content.
Technically true, but highly misleading in its insinuation that American jobs are being moved overseas.
But now the insinuation is racial: Clinton made those lazy blacks work, and Obama wants to go back to giving them “free stuff.”
Its insinuation into the economy of Iran had been widely observed for years.
Historical Examples of insinuation Again that distasteful expression fraught with distrust and insinuation .
De Naarboveck did not seem to understand the insinuation conveyed.
If she could repel Madame Beattie's insinuation , it must mean she had something on her side.
He was an adept in the art of insinuation ; besides that, he knew "every one."
But she, too, was stung to wrath by the insinuation which his words contained.
British Dictionary definitions for insinuation an indirect or devious hint or suggestion the act or practice of insinuating Show More
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for insinuation n. 1520s, from Latin insinuationem (nominative insinuatio ) "entrance through a narrow way; an ingratiating oneself," noun of action from past participle stem of insinuare (see insinuate ).
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
