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

Though maintained as more of an undertone, there is an aspect of infantilization associated with Nicole’s return home. —Gus Alexiou, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025

These warmer neutrals often carry yellow or red undertones that directly clash with gray's cooler base. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 July 2025

If previous seasons focused on teenage rebellion and romance, Season 3 carries a more mature undertone, blending personal coming-of-age stories with broader social upheaval. —Callum McLennan, Variety, 17 July 2025

Especially with deeper skin, the undertones can be so rich and complex. —Larry Stansbury, Essence, 16 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for undertone

• acetone
• anglophone
• baritone
• bourguignon
• buspirone
• chaperon
• chaperone
• cobblestone
• collarbone
• cornerstone
• cortisone
• dictaphone

Kids 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