low-key
[loh-kee]
- of reduced intensity; restrained; understated.
- (of a photograph) having chiefly dark tones, usually with little tonal contrast (distinguished from high-key).
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- to make or attempt to make low-key: to low-key the arms buildup.
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Origin of low-key
First recorded in 1890–95
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Related Words
easygoingrelaxedquietlaid-backsobersubtlerestrainedmutedunderstatedloosemuffledlow-pitchedsoft-sellExamples from the Web for low-key
Contemporary Examples
Later that night, this low-key man went out on stage with otherworldly energy.
In person, Ligety is fairly humble, and low-key—almost enigmatic.
This is where having a low-key character like Deborah Samson, rather than, say, George Washington, was really helpful.
Instead, the star will celebrate tonight with a low-key dinner at home.
Besides, her position dictated a discreet, low-key approach.
Historical Examples
She dressed well, and low-key, and you could tell how smart she was just by looking at her.
Little BrotherCory Doctorow
low-key
low-keyed
- 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
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Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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