/in sin'yooh ay"sheuhn/ , n.
1. an indirect or covert suggestion or hint, esp. of a derogatory nature: She made nasty insinuations about her rivals.
2. covert or artful suggestion or hinting, as of something implied: His methods of insinuation are most ingenious.
3. subtle or artful instillment into the mind.
4. the art or power of stealing into the affections and pleasing; ingratiation: He made his way by flattery and insinuation.
5. Archaic. a slow winding, worming, or stealing in.
6. Obs. an ingratiating act or speech.
[ 1520-30; insinuation- (s. of insinuatio ). See INSINUATE, -ION ]