undertone

[ˈʌndətəʊn]

undertone Definition

  • 1an underlying quality or feeling
  • 2a low or subdued tone of voice
  • 3a color that is not easily noticeable

Using undertone: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "undertone" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    There was an undertone of sadness in her voice.

  • Example

    The painting had an undertone of blue.

  • Example

    His words had a subtle undertone of criticism.

  • Example

    There was an undertone of tension in the room.

undertone Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for undertone

Phrases with undertone

  • racial undertones

    subtle suggestions or implications of racism

    Example

    The article had racial undertones that were offensive to many readers.

  • sexual undertones

    subtle suggestions or implications of sexuality

    Example

    The movie had sexual undertones that made some viewers uncomfortable.

  • political undertones

    subtle suggestions or implications of political bias

    Example

    The speech had political undertones that were not appreciated by everyone in the audience.

Origins of undertone

from 'under-' meaning 'below' and 'tone' meaning 'sound'

📌

Summary: undertone in Brief

The term 'undertone' [ˈʌndətəʊn] refers to an underlying quality or feeling, often subtle or implied. It can also refer to a low or subdued tone of voice or a color that is not easily noticeable. Examples include 'There was an undertone of sadness in her voice' and 'The painting had an undertone of blue.' The term extends into phrases like 'racial undertones,' 'sexual undertones,' and 'political undertones,' denoting subtle suggestions or implications of racism, sexuality, or political bias.