What does hint mean?
A hint is a small indication, piece of information, or suggestion that helps someone understand, discover, or remember something. It may be a useful clue in a puzzle, a slight sign that something exists, or a subtle way of communicating an idea. In informal contexts, “hint” can also function as a verb: to hint at something is to mention or suggest it indirectly, while to hint to someone is to prompt them to notice or act on something. The word is common in both British and American English and can carry the sense of either helpful guidance or deliberate indirectness. A person may give a hint, follow a hint, take the hint, or speak with a hint of suspicion, amusement, or reluctance. Because a hint is intentionally partial or subtle, it is often associated with concealment, encouragement, and indirect communication.
A small piece of information, slight indication, or indirect suggestion that helps someone understand, discover, or remember something.
"The teacher gave the students a hint about the answer."
Common with verbs such as “give,” “offer,” “drop,” “take,” and “follow.” In phrases such as “a hint of,” the word can indicate the faint presence of something.
To suggest or indicate something subtly or indirectly, especially as a way of prompting someone to notice or do something.
"He hinted that the meeting would be postponed."
Usually informal; “hint at” means to indicate indirectly, while “hint to someone” means to give someone a subtle indication or prompt.
Use “hints” for multiple pieces of information, suggestions, or slight indications.
"The clues offered several hints about the hidden location."
A hint can be enough to unlock an entire mystery—when it is the right hint.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hint come from?
The word “hint” comes from Middle English, where it developed from the Old English verb “hintan,” meaning to point or direct attention toward something. Its modern senses developed gradually from the idea of pointing someone toward information. The word is attested in English by the medieval period and is now used for both helpful suggestions and indirect indications.
Related word forms
How hint is actually used
In informal British and American English, “hint” can be used as a verb to mean “suggest” or “nudge” someone, as in “I hinted that he should leave.” As a noun, “hint” is often used for information offered indirectly or subtly.
Easily confused with hint
A clue usually provides information that helps solve a mystery or identify an answer, whereas a hint is more broadly a small indication or suggestion.
A tip is often practical advice or information, while a hint is typically more indirect and may be deliberately subtle.