Pronunciation: [dɹˈɒpt hˈɪnt] (IPA) 
The phrase "dropped hint" is spelled phonetically as /drɑpt hɪnt/. The first syllable of the word "dropped" is pronounced as "d-rahp-t" with a short "o" sound followed by the "p" sound. The second syllable of "hint" is pronounced "h-i-n-t" with a short "i" sound. Together, the phrase refers to a subtle suggestion or indication of something. It is commonly used in conversations and can be both verbal and nonverbal in nature.
A dropped hint refers to a subtle or indirect clue or suggestion that is intentionally or unintentionally revealed during a conversation or interaction. It involves providing information or hinting at something without explicitly stating it outright. Dropped hints are usually conveyed through veiled remarks, gestures, or subtle cues, allowing the hint to be perceived by the observant or attentive individual.
This term is commonly used in social contexts when someone wants to convey a message without being too obvious or forceful. The intention behind dropping a hint is generally to communicate a desire, request, or suggestion discreetly, yet hoping that the recipient will understand and act upon it without the need for direct confrontation or explicit instructions.
Dropped hints can occur in various settings, such as personal relationships, professional environments, or social gatherings. For instance, an individual might drop a hint about wanting a specific gift for their birthday, hoping that the other person will pick up on it and present them with the desired item without explicitly being asked for it. Similarly, an employee might drop a hint to their boss about their interest in a promotion or raise, indirectly conveying their aspirations without directly requesting it.
Overall, a dropped hint can be seen as a subtle way of communicating a message or desire, requiring the recipient to perceive and comprehend the hidden meaning behind it in order to respond accordingly.
The word "dropped hint" consists of two components: "dropped" and "hint".
The term "dropped" is the past participle of the verb "drop", which comes from the Old English word "dropian". The origin of "dropian" can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "drupōną", meaning "to fall in drops". It is also related to the Old Norse word "drúpa" and the Dutch word "druppel", both meaning "drop".
The term "hint" originates from the Old English word "hentan", which means "to seize or grasp". Its roots can be found in the Proto-Germanic word "khantijaną", meaning "to grasp or perceive". The word "hint" evolved from the Middle English word "henten", which meant "to seek out" or "to catch the attention of".
