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
The shades range from baby pink to dark chocolate, blended with warm, cool, and rosy notes and every undertone in between.
—
India Espy-Jones, Essence, 8 June 2024
Using language that implies criminal activity plays into stereotypes and racial undertones that are pervasive throughout these discussions.
—Shakeia Taylor, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2024
Annabelle Breakey; Styling: Kevin Crafts Grilled Cilantro and Pistachio Pesto Shrimp Skewers
Served with slaw, tortillas, and lime, these shrimp skewers are marinated in a zesty cilantro pistachio pesto for a refreshing flavor with nutty undertones.
—Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 3 June 2024
True to its name, the diversity of shades is impressive as well, with products made for olive complexions, tan skin with yellow undertones, and deeper, cooler brown complexions.
—Charu Suri, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2023
See all Example Sentences for undertone 
India Espy-Jones, Essence, 8 June 2024
Using language that implies criminal activity plays into stereotypes and racial undertones that are pervasive throughout these discussions.
—Shakeia Taylor, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2024
Annabelle Breakey; Styling: Kevin Crafts Grilled Cilantro and Pistachio Pesto Shrimp Skewers
Served with slaw, tortillas, and lime, these shrimp skewers are marinated in a zesty cilantro pistachio pesto for a refreshing flavor with nutty undertones.
—Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 3 June 2024
True to its name, the diversity of shades is impressive as well, with products made for olive complexions, tan skin with yellow undertones, and deeper, cooler brown complexions.
—Charu Suri, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2023
See all Example Sentences for undertone
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'undertone.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near undertone
Cite this Entry
“Undertone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/undertone. Accessed 15 Jun. 2024.
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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