Main Entry: in·sin·u·ate

Pronunciation: \in-ˈsin-yə-ˌwāt, -yü-ˌāt\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): in·sin·u·at·ed; in·sin·u·at·ing

Etymology: Latin insinuatus, past participle of insinuare, from in- + sinuare to bend, curve, from sinus curve

Date: 1529

transitive verb 1 a : to introduce (as an idea) gradually or in a subtle, indirect, or covert way <insinuate doubts into a trusting mind> b : to impart or suggest in an artful or indirect way : imply <I resent what you're insinuating>
2 : to introduce (as oneself) by stealthy, smooth, or artful meansintransitive verb 1 archaic : to enter gently, slowly, or imperceptibly : creep
2 archaic : to ingratiate oneself

synonyms see introduce, suggest

— in·sin·u·a·tive \-ˌwā-tiv, -ˌā-tiv\ adjective

— in·sin·u·a·tor \-ˌwā-tər, -ˌā-tər\ noun