Definition

A suggestion or hint that is often indirect and can be negative or derogatory.

Example

Her insinuation about his honesty made everyone uncomfortable.

Conversation

Did you hear her insinuation about my project yesterday?

Yeah, I caught that. It seemed kind of unfair.

I know, right? It was just a sly way to undermine my work.

Totally! People should be more supportive instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insinuation is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "sinuare" (meaning to curve or bend). The word describes the act of subtly introducing an idea or suggestion, often in a indirect or sly manner, as if bending into a conversation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bending' ('sinuare') an idea 'into' ('in-') a conversation — that's how insinuation means to subtly introduce a suggestion.

Visually Confused Words