insinuation

n. [ L. insinuatio: cf. F. insinuation. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. The act or process of insinuating; a creeping, winding, or flowing in. [ 1913 Webster ]

By a soft insinuation mix'd
With earth's large mass. Crashaw. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

I hope through the insinuation of Lord Scarborough to keep them here till further orders. Lady Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. The art or power of gaining good will by a prepossessing manner. [ 1913 Webster ]

He bad a natural insinuation and address which made him acceptable in the best company. Clarendon. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. That which is insinuated; a hint; a suggestion or intimation by distant allusion; as, slander may be conveyed by insinuations. [ 1913 Webster ]

I scorn your coarse insinuation. Cowper.

Syn. -- Hint; intimation; suggestion. See Innuendo. [ 1913 Webster ]