noun / verb
hint
HINT/hɪnt/
An indirect suggestion or clue.
The striped tail gives the man a hint about the cat's location.
Etymology
Hint apparently traces back to a verb meaning “seize,” through a sense “tell, inform.” Its early meaning pictured an indirect suggestion that a knowing listener was meant to catch.
In context
it's the first hint of what to come the aroma can often give us a clue about the flavors that we'll taste
More examples
- She drops hints about what she wants for her birthday.
- He hints at a surprise but won't tell us more.
- I keep checking my watch, but he doesn't take the hint.
Forms
hint · hints · hinted · hinting
Similar words
- clue
- Clue emphasizes evidence that helps solve a problem or mystery.
- suggestion
- Suggestion can offer an idea directly rather than indirectly.