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
Synonyms 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.
