Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day: "Insinuate"

Date: September 9, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski (for Merriam-Webster)

Overview

This episode’s main focus is on the verb “insinuate.” The host, Peter Sokolowski, explores both the meaning and etymology of "insinuate," along with illustrative usage in context. The discussion also draws connections between "insinuate" and related English words with a shared Latin origin, providing listeners not only a definition, but a richer appreciation of the word’s nuances.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Usage

• Primary Meaning:

  • To "insinuate" something, especially something negative or insulting, is to say it in a subtle or indirect way.
  • Can also mean to gradually make oneself a part of a group or someone’s life, often by behaving dishonestly.
  • [00:42]

• Example in Context:

  • Peter quotes the Boston Globe:

    “When people say that or insinuate that Narragansett Town beach is unfriendly or unwelcoming to non-residents, this is absolutely untruthful, said Parks and Recreation Director Michel Kersaw.”

    • [01:11]

2. Connotations and Figurative Meaning

• Insinuating involves “a kind of figurative bending or curving around your meaning.”
• You introduce something—an idea, an accusation, or a point of view—without saying it directly.
• [01:34]

3. Etymology and Word Family

• Origins:

  • From the Latin verb sinuare (to bend or curve).
  • Rooted in the Latin noun sinus (curve).
  • [01:46]

• Related English Words:

  • Mathematical terms: sine and cosine (from the shape of a curve).
  • Adjective: sinuous (having many twists and turns).
  • Noun: sinus (any of several spaces in the skull that connect with the nostrils).
  • [02:00]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the meaning of “insinuate”:

  “To insinuate something, especially something bad or insulting, is to say it in a subtle or indirect way.”
  —Peter Sokolowski, [00:42]

• On figurative use:

  “Insinuating involves a kind of figurative bending or curving around your meaning. You introduce something, an idea, an accusation, a point of view without saying it directly.”
  —Peter Sokolowski, [01:34]

• On etymology:

  “The winding path is visible in the word’s etymology. Insinuate comes from the Latin verb sinuare, meaning to bend or curve, which in turn comes from the Latin noun sinus, meaning curve.”
  —Peter Sokolowski, [01:46]

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:42 — Definition and spelling of "insinuate"
• 01:11 — Usage example from the Boston Globe
• 01:34 — Explanation of figurative meaning: bending around the direct statement
• 01:46 — Etymology: from Latin sinuare and sinus
• 02:00 — Connections to related English words (“sine,” “cosine,” “sinuous,” “sinus”)

Tone and Style

The delivery is clear, concise, and instructive, as is typical of Merriam-Webster’s educational content. Peter Sokolowski employs a professional, slightly conversational tone, ensuring listeners grasp both the meaning and the story behind the day's word.

Summary prepared for listeners who missed the episode or want to revisit the day’s word with all essential context and highlights.