What does intimation mean?
An intimation is a subtle indication that something exists, may happen, or has been noticed. It is typically less definite than an announcement or explanation, often consisting of a hint, slight notice, or restrained disclosure. The word is especially common in formal and literary contexts: an intimation of change may be an early sign that a policy or situation is shifting, while an intimation of danger suggests that someone has sensed a threat without being told explicitly. Although it can refer to the communication of information in general, its usual modern meaning carries a sense of indirectness and understatement. The term is useful when describing knowledge that is emerging gradually, as when someone receives the first intimation that a familiar institution or long-standing arrangement is about to change.
nounA subtle indication or hint that something is true, intended, or likely to happen. The word can also refer to the act of making something known indirectly or discreetly.
- A subtle indication or hint that something is true, intended, or likely to happen.
- The act of making known something, especially indirectly or with restraint.
- An early or slight notice of something, such as a change, development, or approaching event.
"There was no explicit announcement, but the first intimation of the policy change appeared in the committee's report."
"The intimation of a change in the timetable caused a ripple of excitement among the students."
"Her voice gave no intimation that she was upset, although she avoided everyone's gaze."
"He received the first intimation that the old building might soon be sold."
Plural intimations usually refers to separate hints or indications, or to the process of making something known indirectly.
"The first intimations of spring appeared in the warming air and the emerging flowers."
An intimation is a clue that does not announce itself: it leaves enough room for the listener to recognize the truth without being told outright.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intimation come from?
The word comes from Latin intimationem, a noun derived from intimare, meaning to make known or announce. Intimare is connected with intimus, meaning intimate or trusted, so the word originally carried the idea of making something known in a confidential or inward manner. English borrowed the Latin form in the late Middle English period and gradually developed its modern senses of a hint, indication, or slight notice.
Related word forms
How intimation is actually used
Generally formal or literary. It often suggests an indirect, restrained, or preliminary indication rather than a clear statement. In modern usage, the sense of a hint or faint indication is more common than the older sense of a formal notification.