low-key

American  

[loh-kee] / ˈloʊˈki /

Or lowkey

adjective

1. of reduced intensity; restrained; understated.

   Judicial elections used to be low-key affairs, attracting little campaign spending.

2. (of a photograph) having chiefly dark tones, usually with little tonal contrast (high-key ).

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adverb

1. Slang. in a restrained or discreet way, or to a limited extent, without trying to attract attention.

   I low-key wish I was married with three kids, though it is fun to be single.

verb (used with object)

low-keyed, low-keying

1. to make or attempt to make low-key.

   to low-key the arms buildup.

low-key British  

adjective

1. having a low intensity or tone

2. restrained, subdued, or understated

3. (of a photograph, painting, etc) having a predominance of dark grey tones or dark colours with few highlights Compare high-key

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Usage

What else does low-key mean? Low-key can variously mean "quiet," "restrained," "moderate," or "easygoing." It can also behave as an adverb meaning "of low or moderate intensity." Like doing something, but in a "chill" way. For instance: We're having a party at my place but keeping it low-key so the neighbors don't complain.

Etymology

Origin of low-key

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Audiences instantly fell for his sound, where hard hitting beats and boisterous music contrast with the star's low-key delivery.

From BBC

Despite his low-key presence, Janick’s organization is a music industry powerhouse, having finished 2025 with a 15.7% share of the U.S. market for recorded music, according to the trade journal Hits.

From Los Angeles Times

In the aftermath of a high-stakes, high-intensity Ashes series, the contrast of a low-key tour of Sri Lanka could either be a welcome change for England, or an unwanted return to the grind.

From BBC

“There were so many great things about Jimmy’s studio, especially how low-key it was,” said Kenny Chesney, who recorded there several times.

From The Wall Street Journal

But in his home state of California, Reagan was remembered as much for his community involvement — which was at times so low-key that some didn’t even realize his father was Ronald Reagan.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• easygoing
• laid-back
• muted
• quiet
• relaxed
• restrained
• sober
• subtle
• understated