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 verb1 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 verb1archaic : to enter gently, slowly, or imperceptibly : creep2archaic : 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