subdue

/səbˈduː/
verb
  1. To overcome, quieten, or bring under control, especially by force or effort.
    • It took several firefighters to subdue the blaze.
    • She managed to subdue her fear and speak calmly.
    • The police used non-lethal methods to subdue the suspect.
  2. To make something less intense or bright; to tone down.
    • Soft music helped subdue the noisy atmosphere in the room.
    • He lowered the blinds to subdue the harsh sunlight.
    • The painter used a gray wash to subdue the bright colors.