v.
Pronunciation: in- ' sin-y ə - ˌ w ā t, -yü- ˌ ā t
Function: verb
Inflected Form: -at · ed ; -at · ing
Etymology: Latin insinuatus, past participle of insinuare, from in- + sinuare to bend, curve, from sinus curve
Date: 1529
transitive verb
1 a : to introduce (as an idea) gradually or in a subtle, indirect, or covert way < insinuate doubts into a trusting mind> b : to impart or suggest in an artful or indirect way : IMPLY <I resent what you're insinuating >
2 : to introduce (as oneself) by stealthy, smooth, or artful means
intransitive verb
1 archaic : to enter gently, slowly, or imperceptibly : CREEP
2 archaic : to ingratiate oneself
synonyms see INTRODUCE , SUGGEST
– in · sin · u · a · tive \ - ˌ w ā -tiv, - ˌ ā -tiv \ adjective
– in · sin · u · a · tor \ - ˌ w ā -t ə r, - ˌ ā -t ə r \ noun