low-key

[loh-kee]

SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR low-key ON THESAURUS.COM

adjective Also low-keyed.

of reduced intensity; restrained; understated.

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

verb (used with object), low-keyed, low-key·ing.

to make or attempt to make low-key: to low-key the arms buildup.

Nearby words

Origin of low-key

First recorded in 1890–95

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for low-key

Later that night, this low-key man went out on stage with otherworldly energy.
When I Met Robin Williams in Afghanistan|Matthew Kaminski|August 20, 2014|DAILY BEAST
In person, Ligety is fairly humble, and low-key—almost enigmatic.
The Can't-Miss Sochi Showdown: Bode Miller And Ted Ligety|Jake Bright|February 9, 2014|DAILY BEAST
This is where having a low-key character like Deborah Samson, rather than, say, George Washington, was really helpful.
The Cross-Dressing Revolutionary: Alex Myers’ New Novel|Eric Herschthal|February 4, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Instead, the star will celebrate tonight with a low-key dinner at home.
Justin Bieber Faces Deportation; NBC Moves Emmy Awards to Monday|Culture Team|January 29, 2014|DAILY BEAST

Besides, her position dictated a discreet, low-key approach.
How Queen Victoria's Affection For John Brown Sprang From His Contact With Dead Albert's Shade|Tom Sykes|June 13, 2013|DAILY BEAST
She dressed well, and low-key, and you could tell how smart she was just by looking at her.
Little Brother|Cory Doctorow

British Dictionary definitions for low-key

low-key

low-keyed

adjective

having a low intensity or tone

restrained, subdued, or understated

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012