innuendo

[ in-yoo-en-doh ]

noun

, plural in·nu·en·dos, in·nu·en·does.

1. an indirect intimation about a person or thing, especially of a disparaging or a derogatory nature.

   Synonyms: imputation, insinuation

2. Law.
   1. a parenthetic explanation or specification in a pleading.
   2. (in an action for slander or libel) the explanation and elucidation of the words alleged to be defamatory.
   3. the word or expression thus explained.

innuendo

/ ˌɪnjʊˈɛndəʊ /

noun

1. an indirect or subtle reference, esp one made maliciously or indicating criticism or disapproval; insinuation
2. law (in pleading) a word introducing an explanatory phrase, usually in parenthesis
3. law in an action for defamation
   1. an explanation of the construction put upon words alleged to be defamatory where the defamatory meaning is not apparent
   2. the words thus explained

Word History and Origins

Origin of innuendo¹

First recorded in 1555–65; from Latin: “a hint,” literally, “by signaling,” ablative of innuendum, gerund of innuere “to signal,” equivalent to in- in- ² + nuere “to nod”

Word History and Origins

Origin of innuendo¹

C17: from Latin, literally: by hinting, from innuendum, gerund of innuere to convey by a nod, from in- ² + nuere to nod

Example Sentences

Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, said by focusing on Mr Kaba’s ethnicity, they had created "rumour and innuendo” which could “embolden those who work against the public".

From BBC

We meet Lina at the three-month and 17-day mark of not being touched at all by her husband, which has driven her to take matters into her own hands — innuendo intended.

From Salon

Like all good dad jokes, the sexual innuendo is implied in the faintest of ways.

From Salon

The writing is punctuated by testy asides and innuendos about Villanueva foes, whom the report accuses of everything from extramarital affairs to ethical violations to new crimes.

From Los Angeles Times

His dismissed the prosecution’s case as nothing more than “theories, hypotheses, innuendoes, assumptions, gut feelings, hairs on the back of your neck.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• insinuation