undertone

/ˈʌndərˌtoʊn/
noun
  1. A quiet or low voice; a subdued tone of speech.
    • He muttered an undertone of complaint as he left the room.
    • She spoke in an undertone so as not to wake the baby.
    • The two friends exchanged secrets in an undertone during the movie.
  2. A hidden or underlying quality, feeling, or meaning.
    • There was an undertone of tension in the meeting despite the polite words.
    • His joke had an undertone of bitterness that made everyone uncomfortable.
    • The painting's bright colors hide an undertone of sadness.
  3. A pale or subdued color that shows through or modifies another color.
    • The gray carpet has a green undertone that matches the curtains.
    • The wall paint has a blue undertone that makes the room feel cooler.
    • Her skin has a warm undertone, so she looks good in gold jewelry.
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