muted

adjective

mut·​ed ˈmyü-təd 

1

a

: being mute : silent

b

: toned down : low-key, subdued

muted colors

muted voices

a muted response

2

: provided with or produced or modified by the use of a mute

mutedly adverb

Synonyms of muted

• quieted
• silent
• quiet
• hushed

Examples of muted in a Sentence

The artist chose colors that are dark and muted.

the muted sound of a distant trumpet

The government chose a more muted response to the threat.

Their proposal has drawn a muted reaction from most observers.

Recent Examples on the Web

As of March, however, the impact of tariffs was relatively muted in the latest CPI report. —Arkansas Online, 11 Apr. 2026

Scientists also asked the astronauts to report their perception of color and tone on the night side of the Moon, where only the muted hues of sunlight reflected off the Earth illuminate the surface. —Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 9 Apr. 2026

Whether your dress comes in a bold, statement shade like Hari Nef’s or leans toward a more muted palette, a neutral-toned turtleneck worn underneath creates subtle contrast while sharpening the overall look. —Gena Kaufman, InStyle, 8 Apr. 2026

Leaving the refuge, the vibrant color palette and moisture give way to muted browns and the returning austerity of desert air. —Josh Jackson, Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for muted

• booted
• fluted
• fruited
• hooted
• looted
• mooted
• rooted
• routed
• scooted
• suited
• commuted
• computed