subdued

adjective

sub·​dued səb-ˈdüd How to pronounce subdued (audio)
-ˈdyüd
: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength
subdued colors
subduedly
səb-ˈdü(-ə)d-lē How to pronounce subdued (audio)
-ˈdyü(-ə)d-
adverb

Examples of subdued in a Sentence

She spoke in a subdued voice. The color in the lobby is subdued.
Recent Examples on the Web On an aesthetic level, while logos used to reign, the luxury labels that best capture the zeitgeist today are mastering a more subdued — but, importantly, not boring — design POV informed by personal style. Romany Williams, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2024 The Blackpink star just gave the season's hottest shade, black cherry, a swipe—but with a subdued twist. Ranyechi Udemezue, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2024 This luxury property is a more subdued and subtle version of its extravagant brethren in the city. Everett Potter, Forbes, 10 Oct. 2024 Born at Zwickau and Dresden due to subdued demand, because these factories have specific EV-only lines. James Morris, Fortune Europe, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for subdued 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'subdued.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subdued was in 1785

Dictionary Entries Near subdued

Cite this Entry

“Subdued.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subdued. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

subdued

adjective
: lacking in liveliness, intensity, or strength
subdued colors

More from Merriam-Webster on subdued

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