subdued

adjective

sub·​dued səb-ˈdüd 

-ˈdyüd

: lacking in vitality, intensity, or strength

subdued colors

subduedly

səb-ˈdü(-ə)d-lē 

-ˈdyü(-ə)d-

adverb

Synonyms

• conservative
• low-key
• low-keyed
• muted
• quiet
• repressed
• restrained
• sober
• toned-down
• understated
• unflashy
• unpretentious

Examples of subdued in a Sentence

She spoke in a subdued voice.

The color in the lobby is subdued.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Northern Hemisphere experiences a more subdued shower, with about 10 to 20 meteors streaking across the sky each hour, NASA said. —Hannah Poukish, Sacbee.com, 4 May 2025

There is also Rosy Check, Sterling Check, and Mocha Check, which feel more subdued. —Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Apr. 2025

This week, the brand is introducing the new Napoli Rosa collection, reimagining the Napoli line in a more subdued, blush color palette compared to the original bold Mediterranean colors. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2025

Just recently, Tyla wore neon yellow nails to complement her all-black red carpet look—similarly, key lime pie nails can be a more subdued way to take your outfits up a notch. —Kleigh Balugo, StyleCaster, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for subdued

• accrued
• allude
• collude
• conclude
• construed
• debuted
• delude
• elude
• endued
• ensued
• eschewed
• etude

Kids Definition

subdued

adjective

: lacking in liveliness, intensity, or strength

subdued colors