In*sin"u*a`tion (?), n. [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.
© Webster 1913. | 
