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

• innuendo
• imputation
• suggestion

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

Any insinuation to the contrary is misleading and irresponsible. —Jake Allen, IndyStar, 1 Oct. 2025

Paul Thomas Anderon’s newest movie is very much a comedy, but Hall is mostly on hand during its graver political insinuations. —Matthew Jacobs, Vulture, 30 Sep. 2025

The Trump administration has proven to be persistently misogynistic in its policies since taking office in January, but the Tylenol claims and their insinuations are uniquely horrifying. —Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 23 Sep. 2025

In a statement, the White House blasted any insinuation of a conflict of interest. —Rob Wile, NBC news, 3 Sep. 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