The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word INSINUATE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
I
N
S
I
N
U
A
T
E
More clues leading to the result INSINUATE
- Hint Tunisian criminal gave at last
- Subtly introduce new form of annuities
- Snidely suggest how unmarried couples live fundamentally undermines a truth eternal
- Hint isn’t in a clue that’s half missing, faulty
- Imply that annuities should be adjusted
- Suggest reform of United Nations? Don’t fancy being dismissed
- Hint is in a tune that’s off-key
- Suggest that, in error say, you took food
- Indirectly suggest annuities should be distributed
- Suggest renegotiating annuities
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Imply" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case imply = insinuate.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does INSINUATE mean?
INSINUATE verb- To hint; to suggest tacitly (usually something bad) while avoiding a direct statement.
- To creep, wind, or flow into; to enter gently, slowly, or imperceptibly, as into crevices.
- (by extension) To ingratiate; to obtain access to or introduce something by subtle, cunning or artful means.