insinuation

noun

in·​sin·​u·​a·​tion (ˌ)in-ˌsin-yə-ˈwā-shən How to pronounce insinuation (audio)
-yü-ˈā-
Synonyms of insinuation
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.
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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.
Coverage of the story dovetailed with a hail of memes and insinuations online that Crockett is a zealot or a pretend cowboy out of his depth. — Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026 The evidence at the scene didn’t substantiate his insinuation that Lindsey killed herself in the shower, however, investigators said in the affidavit. — Samira Asma-Sadeque, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026 Ormund makes insinuations that his cousin is gay, which makes Ormund at once the most outwardly homophobic and sexist character in the show presently. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 What Purdy did not appreciate was the insinuation—from other Democrats, from members of the media, from online trolls—that the process to replace Platner was somehow undemocratic. — Elaine Godfrey, The Atlantic, 22 July 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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