subdued

adjective

sub·​dued səb-ˈdüd 

-ˈdyüd

: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength

subdued colors

subduedly

səb-ˈdü(-ə)d-lē 

-ˈdyü(-ə)d-

adverb

Synonyms of subdued

• muted
• restrained
• quiet
• understated

Examples of subdued in a Sentence

She spoke in a subdued voice.

The color in the lobby is subdued.

Recent Examples on the Web

Prices remain relatively subdued considering its tight fundamentals. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 24 July 2026

Without them, some would feel even bigger, more raw and dramatic, but others — especially in America, where many neutrals came specifically for the spectacle rather than for either team — could feel subdued and forgotten. — Henry Bushnell, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Obviously, the talking-points from Kiffin will be interesting to monitor, though the Tigers head coach seems to be more subdued in person compared to his social media presence. — Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026

For something even more subdued, try a light jelly shade of pink nail polish. — Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 19 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for subdued

• accrued
• allude
• collude
• conclude
• construed
• debuted
• delude
• elude
• endued
• ensued
• eschewed
• etude

Kids Definition

subdued

adjective

: lacking in liveliness, intensity, or strength

subdued colors