insinuation

noun

in·​sin·​u·​a·​tion (ˌ)in-ˌsin-yə-ˈwā-shən 

-yü-ˈā-

1

: something that is insinuated

especially : a sly, subtle, and usually derogatory utterance

2

: the act or process of insinuating

Synonyms

• imputation
• innuendo

Examples of insinuation in a Sentence

I resent her insinuation that I can't do it without her help.

He criticizes his opponents by insinuation rather than directly.

Recent Examples on the Web

Considering the months of discussion both sides put into reaching a deal and the political drama that led up to its final days, any insinuation of harmony might seem to onlookers like April Fools’. —Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 1 Apr. 2025

Any insinuation otherwise by tabloid ‘journalism’ is a slanderous lie — full stop. —Robert Faturechi, ProPublica, 4 Mar. 2025

Van Hollen said the insinuations about the margarita glasses don't hold up under scrutiny. —Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 19 Apr. 2025

This insinuation, which comes early in the series, leaving its suggestion in the air for the remainder, has no basis in fact and sticks out in a series rooted in actual events. —Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for insinuation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration