Innuendo (/ˌɪnjuˈɛndoʊ/) is a subtle or indirect remark or hint, often suggesting something disparaging or offensive. The word originates from the Latin word 'innuere,' meaning to nod or to give a sign. The spelling of innuendo can be confusing, as the word contains two 'n's and two 'd's. However, remembering the stress pattern (/ˌɪnjuˈɛndoʊ/) can help with correct spelling. Additionally, breaking the word down into its syllables (in-nu-en-do) can also make the spelling more manageable.
Innuendo is a noun that refers to an indirect or subtle insinuation or suggestion, typically with a negative or derogatory connotation. It involves using language or actions in a way that implies a particular meaning without explicitly stating it. Innuendo is often employed to convey a hidden message or to insinuate something negative or scandalous about a person, situation, or event.
The term "innuendo" originates from the Latin word "innuendus," which means "to point at" or "to signal." It involves hinting at something, making an allusion, or implying a particular meaning without openly stating it. Innuendo can be found in various forms of communication, including verbal conversations, written texts, jokes, or even body language.
Due to its indirect nature, innuendo often requires interpretation or an understanding of the context in which it is presented. It requires the listener or reader to make the connection between the implied meaning and the actual message being communicated. This form of communication is often used in humor, satire, gossip, or situations involving hidden meanings, but can also be used manipulatively or with harmful intent.
In summary, innuendo refers to the use of indirect or subtle insinuations or suggestions to convey a hidden or underlying meaning, often with negative or derogatory undertones. It invites interpretation and relies on the listener or reader's ability to infer the intended message.
An indirect or oblique hint; an indirect intimation or reference.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "innuendo" comes from the Latin term "innuere", which means "to nod towards" or "to point to". It is derived from the prefix "in-" meaning "towards" and the word "nuere" meaning "to nod". In Latin, "innuere" was often used in legal contexts to refer to an indirect reference, hint, or insinuation made in a legal document. This legal sense of the term eventually evolved into the modern English usage of "innuendo" to mean a veiled or indirect insinuation, typically conveying a negative or suggestive meaning.