insinuation

In*sin"u*a`tion, n. Etym: [L. insinuatio: cf. F. insinuation.] 1. The act or process of insinuating; a creeping, winding, or flowing in. By a soft insinuation mix'd With earth's large mass. Crashaw. 2. The act of gaining favor, affection, or influence, by gentle or artful means; -- formerly used in a good sense, as of friendly influence or interposition. Sir H. Wotton. I hope through the insinuation of Lord Scarborough to keep them here till further orders. Lady Cowper. 3. The art or power of gaining good will by a prepossessing manner. He bad a natural insinuation and address which made him acceptable in the best company. Clarendon. 4. That which is insinuated; a hint; a suggestion or intimation by distant allusion; as, slander may be conveyed by insinuations. I scorn your coarse insinuation. Cowper. Syn. -- Hint; intimation; suggestion. See Innuendo.

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