In·sin·u·ate v. t. [imp. & p. p. Insinuated p. pr. & vb. n. Insinuating.]
1. To introduce gently or slowly, as by a winding or narrow passage, or a gentle, persistent movement.
The water easily insinuates itself into, and placidly distends, the vessels of vegetables. --Woodward.
2. To introduce artfully; to infuse gently; to instill.
All the art of rhetoric, besides order and clearness, are for nothing else but to insinuate wrong ideas, move the passions, and thereby mislead the judgment. --Locke.
Horace laughs to shame all follies and insinuates virtue, rather by familiar examples than by the severity of precepts. --Dryden.
3. To hint; to suggest by remote allusion; -- often used derogatorily; as, did you mean to insinuate anything?
4. To push or work (one's self), as into favor; to introduce by slow, gentle, or artful means; to ingratiate; -- used reflexively.
He insinuated himself into the very good grace of the Duke of Buckingham. --Clarendon.
Syn: -- To instill; hint; suggest; intimate.