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

These wines are dark, smoky, and full of black fruit, pepper, and meaty undertones. —Emily Price, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025

Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 14 Mar. 2025

This formula contains both, and also has a medium-full coverage finish that hides blue and purple undertones. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 7 Mar. 2025

With a slightly blue undertone, the best-selling shade has a glossy finish. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for undertone

• acetone
• anglophone
• baritone
• bourguignon
• buspirone
• chaperon
• chaperone
• cobblestone
• collarbone
• cornerstone
• cortisone
• dictaphone

Kids 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