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
Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?
—
Devon Abelman, Allure, 23 Nov. 2024
However, an undertone of concern emerged in the watch collector community after Kern made his announcement.
—Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 20 Nov. 2024
On the nose, Eagle Rare 17 delivers complex notes of oak and caramel intertwined with subtle undertones of vanilla and pepper spice with a caramel sweetness evened by the spiciness of rye, toasted oak, and tobacco on the palate.
—Emily Price, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024
There are so many layers to this uplifting, warm-hearted romantic comedy with its realistic undertone and satirical twist.
—Leo Barraclough, Variety, 16 Oct. 2024
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.
Devon Abelman, Allure, 23 Nov. 2024
However, an undertone of concern emerged in the watch collector community after Kern made his announcement.
—Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 20 Nov. 2024
On the nose, Eagle Rare 17 delivers complex notes of oak and caramel intertwined with subtle undertones of vanilla and pepper spice with a caramel sweetness evened by the spiciness of rye, toasted oak, and tobacco on the palate.
—Emily Price, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024
There are so many layers to this uplifting, warm-hearted romantic comedy with its realistic undertone and satirical twist.
—Leo Barraclough, Variety, 16 Oct. 2024
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 3 Dec. 2024.
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