hint 1 of 2

Definition of hintnext
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as in glimmer
an almost imperceptible sign of something there was the slightest hint of scorn in her voice

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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hint

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verb

as in to indicate
to convey an idea indirectly kept hinting that she wouldn't mind an invitation to spend the weekend at their beach house

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word hint distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of hint are imply, insinuate, intimate, and suggest. While all these words mean "to convey an idea indirectly," hint implies the use of slight or remote suggestion with a minimum of overt statement.

hinted that she might get the job

How are the words imply and suggest related as synonyms of hint?

Imply is close to suggest but may indicate a more definite or logical relation of the unexpressed idea to the expressed.

measures implying that bankruptcy was imminent

When is insinuate a more appropriate choice than hint?

The meanings of insinuate and hint largely overlap; however, insinuate applies to the conveying of a usually unpleasant idea in a sly underhanded manner.

insinuated that there were shady dealings

When might intimate be a better fit than hint?

The words intimate and hint can be used in similar contexts, but intimate stresses delicacy of suggestion without connoting any lack of candor.

intimates that there is more to the situation than meets the eye

In what contexts can suggest take the place of hint?

While in some cases nearly identical to hint, suggest may stress putting into the mind by association of ideas, awakening of a desire, or initiating a train of thought.

a film title that suggests its subject matter

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hint
Noun
Even still, as cracks of pain spread through Jamon’s voice when discussing his past, hints of pride drip through. Luca Evans, Denver Post, 21 June 2026 That shark nose front end keeps a hint of the BMW kidney grille although the new M yellow lights will surely become the new signature feature of future M cars. New Atlas, 21 June 2026
Verb
In the final film, hints abound. Literary Hub, 8 June 2026 The fossils hint that this giant scorpion may have lived in the water some of the time. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for hint
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hint
Noun
  • State police said there is no indication of foul play, suspicious circumstances or any criminal aspect connected to the case.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 19 June 2026
  • If Cold Courts approach to production is any indication, it’s probably intended to be all that and more.
    Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • There’s something so heartbreaking about a refreshing dramedy series like AppleTV+'s Shrinkingthat can give you a glimmer of hope about getting help and speaking to someone to process your thoughts – in this case, a therapist.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
  • After the game, with the glimmer of tears in their eyes, the New Yorker editor David Remnick and Vinson Cunningham celebrated the win, and were joined by Louisa Thomas, who managed a bit more equanimity.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 14 June 2026
Noun
  • This lightweight formula hydrates both scalp and strands, while ingredients like niacinamide, biotin, panthenol, and green tea extract support stronger, healthier-looking hair from root to tip.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026
  • Rainy weather driving tips Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • However, even though overhead watering, sprinkling, and misting can cause plant disease, during prolonged high temperatures, a humid environment probably outweighs the risk of plant disease.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 16 June 2026
  • The team has a real sense of unity, as well as a sprinkling of class led by experienced defender Achraf Hakimi.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 13 June 2026
Verb
  • Though Kim stressed the new warship was a completely domestic product, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said the pace of shipbuilding could indicate otherwise.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
  • Nienhuis said Billy Mansfield previously indicated there could be more bodies in Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas counties, but investigators were unable to reach an agreement that would have provided additional information in exchange for reduced charges.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Investors will now be closely watching for clues on Burnham's policy direction, which so far has been scant on details.
    Gail Krishnan, CNBC, 23 June 2026
  • Skillmatics Guess in 10 Animal Planet Card Game Take 20 questions up a notch with a card game that challenges kids to guess an animal based on clues.
    Parents, Parents, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The hosts outshoot Qatar 32-2 and had 97 touches in the box in one of the most dominant performances in recent World Cup history.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
  • Drown them with an ample amount of water and stir to confirm that everything is cold to the touch.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • The case was initiated in August by an asylum-seeker from Guatemala who was arrested after leaving a routine immigration hearing in San Francisco and then held without access to adequate hygiene, sanitation, medical care and legal advice, according to the complaint.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
  • To meet that demand, develop a travel wellness and performance plan built around personalized habits rather than generic advice.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Hint.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hint. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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