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

In the low-key and sedate drama “Midwinter Break,” a married couple who have been together a very long time treat each other with nothing but love, tenderness and respect.

From The Wall Street Journal

Heiden, a longtime orthopaedic surgeon, low-key guy and probably America’s most overlooked living athlete, is in Milan, cheering on Stolz, a nice touch.

From The Wall Street Journal

By the early 1930s, Bing Crosby had created a distinctively American vocal style—low-key, expressive—which was adapted by Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra.

From The Wall Street Journal

That allure, and the easy access from a huge urban area, have combined to give the relatively low-key mountain one of the worst records for death and injury in the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

He said despite his low-key profile, he had learned to deal with the pressure from competing in the Four Hills Tournament in his homeland -- "that's the biggest thing there is".

From Barron's

Related Words

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