subdued

1 of 2

adjective

sub·​dued səb-ˈdüd 

-ˈdyüd

: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength

subdued colors

subduedly

səb-ˈdü(-ə)d-lē 

-ˈdyü(-ə)d-

adverb

subdued

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of subdue

Synonyms of subdued

Adjective

• muted
• restrained
• quiet
• understated

Examples of subdued in a Sentence

Adjective

She spoke in a subdued voice.

The color in the lobby is subdued.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Now, in the midst of a subdued market, investors are being more selective, and the new playbook for funding fashion has a lot to do with the quality of that growth, the depth of connection with customers and the founder’s individual appeal. — Tara Donaldson, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026

On the other hand, this education leads some to overdress—that hyper-graphic maxi dress paired with a neon pink beret is going to clash with the more subdued, elegant looks that stylish Parisians tend to sport. — Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Aug. 2026

Storms can still find windows of opportunity to form and become a threat, even in an overall subdued season. — Chris Dolce, CNN Money, 31 Aug. 2026

Still, those who prosper based on achieving productivity advances naturally have greater wealth than before, only to drive up other prices formerly lower due to more subdued economic growth. — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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