insinuation

noun

in·​sin·​u·​a·​tion (ˌ)in-ˌsin-yə-ˈwā-shən How to pronounce insinuation (audio)
-yü-ˈā-
Synonyms of insinuationnext
1
: something that is insinuated
especially : a sly, subtle, and usually derogatory utterance
2
: the act or process of insinuating

Synonyms of insinuation

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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
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.
The Plums prickle at the lap-dog insinuation. — Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 29 June 2026 Believing our conduct improper, the villagers began to make insinuations. — Literary Hub, 28 May 2026 Carlson is often vague, trafficking in insinuation rather than outright accusation. — Michelle Goldberg, Mercury News, 28 Apr. 2026 But whatever one thinks of Massie’s anti-Israel activism and anti-Jewish insinuations, neither was the reason he was excised. — Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for insinuation

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of insinuation was in 1526

Rhymes for insinuation

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Browse Nearby Words

insinuating
insinuation
insinuative
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Cite this Entry

“Insinuation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insinuation. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on insinuation

Nglish: Translation of insinuation for Spanish Speakers

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