subdued

adjective

sub·​dued səb-ˈdüd How to pronounce subdued (audio)
-ˈdyüd
Synonyms of subduednext
: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength
subdued colors
subduedly
səb-ˈdü(-ə)d-lē How to pronounce subdued (audio)
-ˈdyü(-ə)d-
adverb

Examples of subdued in a Sentence

She spoke in a subdued voice. The color in the lobby is subdued.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The more subdued whip stitch pillow cover features graphic contrast stitching for some minimalist detail that’s not too in-your-face. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 Jan. 2026 Skewing your green selections toward a more earthy aesthetic will help set a more subdued tone that helps enhance your room’s overall design rather than trying to steal the show. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 19 Jan. 2026 The wallpaper pro suggests a medium-scale floral block print, which will read more subdued than larger- or smaller-scale options on either side of the spectrum. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2026 The arts are a subdued call to a confrontation, a quarrel that contemplates cruelty, not optimism. Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subdued

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subdued was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Subdued.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subdued. Accessed 25 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

subdued

adjective
: lacking in liveliness, intensity, or strength
subdued colors

More from Merriam-Webster on subdued

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