undertone
noun
un·der·tone
ˈən-dər-ˌtōn 
1
: a low or subdued utterance or accompanying sound
2
: a quality (as of emotion) underlying the surface of an utterance or action
3
: a subdued color
specifically
: a color seen through and modifying another color
Examples of undertone in a Sentence
She commented in an undertone that the music was really not very good.
The play is a comedy with dark undertones.
The fabric is a rich brown color with undertones of red.
Recent Examples on the Web
Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?
—
Annie Blackman, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025
Goldthorpe used language with racist undertones, alleging that Republican lawmakers were in a slave/master relationship with House Speaker Mike Moyle, R-Star.
—Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 3 Apr. 2025
The palate showcases a complex blend of rich caramel, vanilla, and rye spice, with subtle oak and fruit undertones.
—Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
The calming effects of both the strain and the tea help to enhance relaxation, while the sweet, fruity undertones of the cannabis match perfectly with the floral notes of the tea.
—Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 12 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for undertone
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Annie Blackman, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025
Goldthorpe used language with racist undertones, alleging that Republican lawmakers were in a slave/master relationship with House Speaker Mike Moyle, R-Star.
—Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 3 Apr. 2025
The palate showcases a complex blend of rich caramel, vanilla, and rye spice, with subtle oak and fruit undertones.
—Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
The calming effects of both the strain and the tea help to enhance relaxation, while the sweet, fruity undertones of the cannabis match perfectly with the floral notes of the tea.
—Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 12 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for undertone
Cite this Entry
“Undertone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/undertone. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
undertone
noun
un·der·tone
ˈən-dər-ˌtōn
1
: a low or quiet tone
2
: a faint color as seen through and changing another color
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