Innuendos Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤭

Add to dictionary

innuendos

[ˌɪnjuˈɛndəʊz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in social interactions

An indirect or subtle reference, insinuation, or suggestion, typically suggestive or disparaging in nature.

Synonyms

hint, implication, insinuation, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
innuendos	This word is often used when referring to indirect and usually derogatory or suggestive remarks. It carries a negative connotation. His speech was full of innuendos aimed at his political rivals. She made several innuendos about his personal life.
insinuation	Use this word when referring to an indirect and often malicious suggestion or accusation. It has a negative nuance. His insinuation about her intentions was unfounded and hurtful. The reporter's question was filled with insinuation.
implication	This word is used when referring to a conclusion that can be drawn from something, although it is not explicitly stated. It often refers to the possible consequences or meanings. The implication of his words was that the project might be canceled. What are the implications of this new policy for our company?
hint	Use this word when you want to talk about a subtle or indirect way of giving information. It is often used in everyday conversation. She gave him a hint about the surprise party by mentioning how much she liked balloons. I think he's trying to give me a hint that he needs help.
suggestion	This word is used when offering an idea or plan for someone to consider. It is a neutral term that can be used in both casual and formal contexts. She made a suggestion to improve the team's workflow. Do you have any suggestions for dinner tonight?

Examples of usage

He was offended by the innuendos made by his colleagues during the meeting.
She couldn't stand the constant innuendos about her personal life.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in literature or entertainment

A veiled or equivocal allusion, often used for comedic effect or to create intrigue.

Synonyms

allusion, reference, subtlety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
innuendos	Use this word when suggesting something in an indirect or underlying manner, often with a hint of negativity or sarcasm. His speech was filled with innuendos about the company's mismanagement. She made several innuendos about his past mistakes.
allusion	This word fits well in literary or sophisticated conversations to make an indirect reference to something well-known. The novel is rich with allusions to classical mythology. He made an allusion to Shakespeare in his speech.
reference	Employ 'reference' for mentioning or pointing directly to something or someone. He made a reference to the report in his presentation. Her research included numerous references to previous studies.
subtlety	Subtlety is often used to describe a nuanced approach or a delicate manner of conveying something without being obvious. The beauty of the painting lies in its subtlety. Her argument was full of subtlety and made a significant impact on the audience.

Examples of usage

The play was filled with clever innuendos that left the audience laughing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Innuendos are often used in classic literature to express taboo themes subtly, allowing authors to discuss controversial topics without breaching decorum.
Playwrights like William Shakespeare frequently employed innuendos in their works to entertain the audience with double meanings.
Contemporary authors, especially in satire and comedy, use innuendos to create humor and connect with readers on a deeper level.

Pop Culture

In popular media, especially sitcoms, characters often use innuendos for comedic effect, implying something risqué while maintaining a playful tone.
Musicians and songwriters frequently include innuendos in their lyrics, allowing for multiple interpretations and engaging listeners in a playful game of meanings.
In movies, especially romantic comedies, innuendos can set the stage for flirtation, creating tension and humor simultaneously.

Psychology

Using innuendos can serve as a social tool, allowing individuals to broach sensitive topics without direct confrontation.
From a psychological viewpoint, people are often drawn to innuendos because they add layers of meaning to communication, making interactions more engaging.
Innuendos can invoke curiosity and engagement, prompting listeners to think critically and read between the lines.

Origin of 'innuendos'

Main points about word origin

The term originates from the Latin word 'innuendo', which means 'by saying' or 'by insinuating'.
It first appeared in English around the 17th century, primarily used in legal contexts before becoming popular in everyday language.
The use of this term expanded over time to include anything that suggests deeper meanings, especially in conversation or writing.

The word 'innuendo' originates from the Latin verb 'innuere', which means 'to nod to' or 'to hint at'. It entered the English language in the late 17th century. Originally, it was used in legal contexts to refer to an oblique or indirect reference. Over time, its usage expanded to include social interactions and creative works, where it conveys a sense of implied meaning or insinuation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,842, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
35839 frangible
35840 braggadocio
35841 summery
35842 innuendos
35843 spandex
35844 croon
35845 interlinking
...