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 of insinuation

• 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

But facts don’t stand in the way of the Sun Sentinel’s insinuation and whispering. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026

The important thing is that The Muppet Show feels generally right — including in its demographic-spanning comic aim, with enough double entendre and insinuation for the grown-ups and mayhem for the kids. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 3 Feb. 2026

Canales disagreed with that insinuation Monday. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 29 Dec. 2025

The legends’ insidious insinuation that many of the Jews around Jesus were not as perceptive as the animals is part of medieval Europe’s widespread antisemitism. —Mary Dzon, The Conversation, 12 Dec. 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