insinuate

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in·sin·u·ate / inˈsinyəˌwāt/ • v. [tr.] 1. suggest or hint (something bad or reprehensible) in an indirect and unpleasant way: he was insinuating that she had slept her way to the top. 2. (insinuate oneself into) maneuver oneself into (a position of favor or office) by subtle manipulation: she seemed to be taking over, insinuating herself into the family. ∎  [tr.] slide (oneself or a thing) slowly and smoothly into a position: the bugs insinuate themselves between one's skin and clothes.DERIVATIVES: in·sin·u·at·ing·ly adv.in·sin·u·a·tor / -ˌwātər/ n.

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