ə̇nˈsinyəˌwāt, usu -ād.+V verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Latin insinuatus, past participle of insinuare, from in- in- (II) + sinuare to bend, curve, from sinus curve, fold — more at sinus
transitive verb
1.
a. : to introduce (as an idea or point of view) stealthily, slyly, or artfully : convey in a subtle, indirect, or covert way : instill imperceptibly
cautiously insinuating doubts of his guardian's probity into the mind of the boy
these fears craftily insinuated by enemy propaganda
b. : to impart or communicate with artful indirect wording or oblique reference and without direct or forthright expression : hint , imply
Newman says of a gentleman that … he never … insinuates evil which he dare not say out — Sir A.T.Quiller-Couch
2.
[Medieval Latin insinuatus, past participle of insinuare, from Latin]
Roman & civil law : to register or file for registration (as a will or a gift)
3. : to introduce (as oneself) by stealthy, smooth, or artful means
insinuating himself into the confidence of the villagers
gently the cat insinuated himself into the snug corner between the chairs
broadly : to introduce gradually or without fuss and turmoil
as time went on saner ideas insinuated themselves into the minds of the members
4. obsolete : to draw or attract (as the mind) to something or to a course by artful or indirect means
5. : to push, work, or introduce slowly, carefully, or by a roundabout way
cautiously insinuating herself into the crowd
insinuate a car through traffic
intransitive verb
1. archaic : enter gently, slowly, or imperceptibly : creep , wind , flow
2. archaic : to ingratiate oneself : obtain access subtly
Synonyms: see suggest