verb
intimate
To suggest or make known indirectly.
The manager intimates that the office may close next year.
Etymology
The Latin verb meant to make known or announce. English developed a subtler sense in which the information is conveyed by a hint rather than an explicit statement.
More examples
- He intimated his disapproval with a brief shake of his head.
- Are you intimating that I caused the problem?
- The letter intimates a willingness to negotiate.
Forms
intimate · intimates · intimated · intimating
intimation noun — An indirect suggestion or hint of something.