insinuate — to suggest or hint at something unpleasant in an indirect way
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to suggest or hint at something unpleasant in an indirect way
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈsɪnjuˌeɪt/
Example Sentences
- The politician tried to insinuate that his opponent was corrupt without providing any evidence.
- My cat has managed to insinuate herself into every Zoom meeting by appearing on camera at the perfect moment.
- She didn't directly accuse me of stealing, but kept insinuating that I was somehow involved.
insinuate
VERB[/ɪnˈsɪnjuˌeɪt/]
to suggest or hint at something unpleasant in an indirect way

With a sly smile, she insinuated that he took the missing money.

They appreciate your story, but insinuate doubt to initiate the truth
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin insinuare, meaning 'to work in gradually or by stealth,' composed of in- (into) and sinuare (to wind or curve), itself derived from sinus (curve, fold).
Breakdown
in- (into) + sinuate (to wind/curve) + -ate (verb suffix) = insinuate
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The politician tried to insinuate that his opponent was corrupt without providing any evidence.”
“My cat has managed to insinuate herself into every Zoom meeting by appearing on camera at the perfect moment.”
“She didn't directly accuse me of stealing, but kept insinuating that I was somehow involved.”
“The gossip columnist has a talent for insinuating scandals without actually stating facts.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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