muted

adjective

mut·​ed ˈmyü-təd 

1

a

: being mute : silent

b

: toned down : low-key, subdued

muted colors

muted voices

a muted response

2

: provided with or produced or modified by the use of a mute

mutedly adverb

Synonyms of muted

• quieted
• silent
• quiet
• hushed

Examples of muted in a Sentence

The artist chose colors that are dark and muted.

the muted sound of a distant trumpet

The government chose a more muted response to the threat.

Their proposal has drawn a muted reaction from most observers.

Recent Examples on the Web

Santat’s illustrations begin with straightforward, muted sincerity and become brighter, busier, and more gleeful—filling every corner of the page—as Sharpson’s narrator becomes ever more unhinged, ranting about fish spies, fish disguises, and fish taking over the world. —Elise Broach, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026

Color is thoughtfully woven into the design using all-natural vegetable dyes, but the earthy palette is still neutral enough to blend in with both vibrant or muted color schemes. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 20 Apr. 2026

The Bungalows are apartment-style options with two-bedroom suites, private entrances, and muted design aesthetics. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Apr. 2026

Hathaway's long brown hair cascaded past her waist, while her makeup consisted of rosy blush and a muted pink lip. —Hannah Malach, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for muted

• booted
• fluted
• fruited
• hooted
• looted
• mooted
• rooted
• routed
• scooted
• suited
• commuted
• computed