in·kling 
(ĭngklĭng)
(ĭngklĭng)n.
1. A slight hint or indication.
2. A slight understanding or vague idea or notion.
[Probably alteration of Middle English (a) ningkiling, (a) hint, suggestion, possibly alteration of nikking, from nikken, to mark a text for correction, from nik, notch, tally, perhaps from variant of Old French niche, niche; see NICHE.]