: reduced or softened in intensity, forcefulness, etc. : restrained, subdued
It was a toned-down version of a raunchy tune he sung in minstrel shows.Charles Seabrook
The toned-down bar has reclaimed paneling, weathered couches and a cocktail menu without bottle service.Benjamin Detrick

Examples of toned-down in a Sentence

after such a heated argument, it was a relief to hear someone use toned-down language to state their position
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Perhaps another reason is that, with the exception of a few suits, men’s looks at the Grammys largely were underwhelming, and that may have also been the result of wanting to look more toned-down out of respect for victims of the wildfires. Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019 Its colorful striped pattern is toned-down ever so slightly by a pair of fashion flip-flops from Massimo Dutti and Haight’s chestnut-colored swimsuit. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 4 July 2024 For her, that meant toned-down, muted pinks and mauve desert tones. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of toned-down was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near toned-down

Cite this Entry

“Toned-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toned-down. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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