OFF-COLORED Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

off-color

adjective

ˈȯf-ˈkə-lər

variants or off-colored

Definition of off-color

as in suggestive

hinting at or intended to call to mind matters regarded as indecent the movie was rated PG-13 for some swearing and off-color jokes

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of off-color The show became a staple thanks to its sometimes off-color but always entertaining humor and the chemistry between the two hosts. — Heather Bushman, IndyStar, 20 Apr. 2026 The show was full of uproarious, often provocative sketches, per Black's unique gift for off-color material. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Apr. 2026 As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles. — Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026 Some of the more off-color clips have captured more than 12 million views. — Sean Gregory, Time, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-color

Recent Examples of Synonyms for off-color

Adjective

The effect dissipates somewhat whenever Cahyono resorts to less suggestive, more blatantly surreal imagery.

— Kambole Campbell, Variety, 10 Oct. 2026
Though revealing, his version of naked dressing was tantalizingly suggestive rather than explicitly bare.

— Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of suggestive

Adjective

The restaurant also makes its own salsas, including roja, verde and a spicier green variety.

— Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2026
The property collaborated with Nobu and the food is clean and delicious—unsurprisingly, lots of raw fish and produce like spicy microgreens and August-sweet tomatoes grown at Sensei’s hydroponic farm down the road.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of spicy

Adjective

National Republicans view Kansas as one of their best opportunities to flip a governorship from blue to red in a tough midterm cycle.

— Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 30 Oct. 2026
The journey, which combines blue, orange and white-blazed trails, will take at least three or four hours and offers a less congested alternative to a loop like the one in Black Bear Wilderness Area.

— Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of blue

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offbeat

off-color

offed

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Style

“Off-color.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/off-color. Accessed 5 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of off-color

adjective

Example Sentences

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