insinuation

American  

[in-sin-yoo-ey-shuhn] / ɪnˌsɪn yuˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. an indirect or covert suggestion or hint, especially of a derogatory nature.

   She made nasty insinuations about her rivals.

2. covert or artful suggestion or hinting, as of something implied.

   His methods of insinuation are most ingenious.

3. subtle or artful instillment into the mind.

4. the art or power of stealing into the affections and pleasing; ingratiation.

   He made his way by flattery and insinuation.

5. Archaic. a slow winding, worming, or stealing in.

6. Obsolete. an ingratiating act or speech.

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insinuation British  

/ ɪnˌsɪnjʊˈeɪʃən /

noun

1. an indirect or devious hint or suggestion

2. the act or practice of insinuating

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Other Word Forms

• preinsinuation noun

Etymology

Origin of insinuation

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin insinuātion- (stem of insinuātiō ); insinuate, -ion

Example Sentences

“Any insinuation from any party opining that filing decisions are made—or, in this case, not made—in an effort to influence crime data is unaware, uneducated, or uninformed about how our office operates,” Chapman said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 16, 2025

"We will be vigorously contesting the allegations brought against him, specifically any insinuation of his operating on behalf of a foreign adversary," they said.

From Barron's • Oct. 15, 2025

That’s all nonsense too, but I remain especially befuddled by the insinuation that it’s somehow sinister or unpatriotic for “entities” “controlled” by “domestic companies” to oppose tariffs.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2025

If feels like a lazy accusation, and almost every pro would bristle at the insinuation they are not giving their all every time they step on to the field.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2024

There was a note of insinuation in his voice, and I looked up from tying my shoe, breathing with conscious evenness.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison

Related Words

• innuendo