undertone
noun
un·der·tone
ˈən-dər-ˌtōn 
1
: a low or subdued utterance or accompanying sound
2
: a quality (as of emotion) underlying the surface of an utterance or action
3
: a subdued color
specifically
: a color seen through and modifying another color
Examples of undertone in a Sentence
She commented in an undertone that the music was really not very good.
The play is a comedy with dark undertones.
The fabric is a rich brown color with undertones of red.
Recent Examples on the Web
Dressed demurely in black, Tissot’s subject is portrayed as a respectable, working-class woman—but the salacious undertones that appear in many of his artworks are present, too.
—
Brigit Katz, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Jan. 2025
Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?
—Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 14 Jan. 2025
Juniper-forward, with peppery spice and undertones of citrus and nuts, a Procera-tini is assertive, almost bossy, but beautifully balanced.
—Tony Sachs, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025
The cool undertone of the sage green chairs balances out the warmth of the brick fireplace, wood furniture, and brass mirror.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for undertone 
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.
Brigit Katz, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Jan. 2025
Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?
—Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 14 Jan. 2025
Juniper-forward, with peppery spice and undertones of citrus and nuts, a Procera-tini is assertive, almost bossy, but beautifully balanced.
—Tony Sachs, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025
The cool undertone of the sage green chairs balances out the warmth of the brick fireplace, wood furniture, and brass mirror.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for undertone
Dictionary Entries Near undertone
Cite this Entry
“Undertone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/undertone. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
undertone
noun
un·der·tone
ˈən-dər-ˌtōn
1
: a low or quiet tone
2
: a faint color as seen through and changing another color
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share