Background for undertone

undertone

/ˈʌndərtoʊn/ /ˈʌndɚtoʊn/

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noun

An auditory tone of low pitch or volume.

Examples :

"The old grandfather clock's undertone was a low, rhythmic tick-tock. "

sound music phonetics

Illustration undertone - Image 1

noun

Examples :

"The teacher's lecture, despite its upbeat tone, had an undertone of concern about the students' lack of preparation. "

literature media communication language writing style

Illustration undertone - Image 1

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noun

A pale colour, or one seen underneath another colour.

Examples :

"The undertone of the paint was a light beige, barely visible beneath the bright yellow. "

color appearance

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noun

A low state of the physical faculties.

Examples :

"After running the marathon, she felt a lingering undertone of exhaustion in her muscles for days. "

condition physiology body medicine

Illustration undertone - Image 1

verb

To accompany as an undertone.

Examples :

"The teacher's lecture undertone a sense of urgency about the upcoming test. "

sound music style language communication

Illustration undertone - Image 1

verb

To say or speak in an undertone.

Examples :

"He undertone his disappointment, saying softly, "I'm not sure this is the best idea." "

communication language sound

Illustration undertone - Image 1

verb

To present as less important, noticeable or prominent.

Examples :

"The teacher undertoned her criticism of the project, focusing more on the positive aspects instead. "

communication language writing