Synonyms of allusion

allusion

noun

as in reference

a statement that refers to something without mentioning it directly

The lyrics contain biblical allusions.

Related Words

• reference
• implication
• inference
• innuendo
• indication
• clue
• insinuation
• intimation
• suggestion
• evidence
• cue
• mention
• inkling
• hint
• idea
• lead
• glimpse
• whiff
• inspiration
• scent
• wind
• glimmer
• breath
• sign
• notion
• signal
• token
• assistance
• flicker
• key
• hunch
• pointer
• prompt
• nod
• denotation
• tip
• mark
• overtone
• wink
• telltale
• guidepost
• tip-off

Dissimilar Words

• solution
• answer

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of allusion

Many of these allusions can feel like inside baseball that will make sense to only a microscopic portion of the French population, most of it based in Paris. — Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2026

Scientists have an indisputable playful side, evidenced by frequent allusions to popular culture in their research publications. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 9 Sep. 2026

But both the allusion to the fictional character and the marketing misstep were unfortunate. — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 28 Aug. 2026

His allusion to the United States’ awesome deployment of power in World War II – part of the largest amphibious military operation in history – wasn’t just an attention-grabbing social media post. — Ned Temko, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026

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