insinuation

UK: /ɪnˌsɪnjuˈeɪʃ^ən/

US: /ɪnˌsɪnjuˈeɪʃən/

US: (in sin′yo̅o̅ ā′shən)

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

in•sin•u•a•tion /ɪnˌsɪnyuˈeɪʃən/   n. 

1. the act or state of insinuating:
   [uncountable] When direct methods failed he tried insinuation.
   [countable] made several nasty insinuations about me.
2. a statement that insinuates something:
   [countable] ridiculous insinuations about his sexuality.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

in•sin•u•a•tion  (in sin′yo̅o̅ ā′shən), n. 

1. an indirect or covert suggestion or hint, esp. 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. [Obs.] an ingratiating act or speech.

• Latin insinuātion- (stem of insinuātiō). See insinuate, -ion
• 1520–30

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

insinuation / ɪnˌsɪnjʊˈeɪʃən/ noun

1. an indirect or devious hint or suggestion
2. the act or practice of insinuating