innuendo

American  

[in-yoo-en-doh] / ˌɪn yuˈɛn doʊ /

noun

plural

innuendos, innuendoes

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.

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innuendo British  

/ 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

   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

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Etymology

Origin of innuendo

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”

Explanation

Speaking in innuendo is when you say something indirectly — often of a hurtful or sexual nature. Innuendo in Latin means "to point to" or "nod to." When you refer to something indirectly, you point at it without mentioning it, making an innuendo. If your friend who recently stopped speaking to you glares at you across a room as she says to someone else, "I would never lie to someone I called a friend," she's making an innuendo. Without accusing you directly, she's saying she thinks you lied.

Example Sentences

Strategists figured it better to get out front of the chatter and address the online innuendo, even if it meant exposing the allegations to a much wider audience.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Owens’ story is backed by innuendo, exaggerations, outright falsehoods, and, in several instances, messages delivered through Owens’ own dreams.

From Slate • Feb. 27, 2026

And by acting on his instincts—with Paramount’s backing—he created a clutch of movies still celebrated for their wit, charm, winking innuendo and sophistication.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

What’s more, he vows to reopen an investigation into the death of Laius, the former leader who died 34 years ago under circumstances that have allowed rumor and innuendo to fester.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

So she’d let no insult or innuendo slide.

From "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo

Related Words

• insinuation