suggestive
UK: səˈdʒestɪv | US: səɡˈdʒɛstɪv
adj. tending to suggest an idea, meaning, or emotion indirectly
adj. implying something indecent or improper
The word "suggestive" derives from the Latin suggestus (past participle of suggerere, meaning "to bring up, supply, or prompt"). The root sug- (a variant of sub-, meaning "under") + gerere (meaning "to carry") implies "carrying something forward subtly." The suffix -ive turns it into an adjective, emphasizing its function of implying rather than stating outright. Over time, "suggestive" evolved to connote indirect hints, often with a risqué undertone.
Her smile was suggestive of a shared secret.
The artist used suggestive imagery to provoke thought.
The lyrics were deemed too suggestive for radio play.
His tone was subtly suggestive, making her uneasy.
The advertisement avoided suggestive content to appeal to a broader audience.