Low-key

Quick meaning: Low-key is an adjective meaning (art, photography) Dark; characterized by dark tones and muted colors.

Meaning

(art, photography) Dark; characterized by dark tones and muted colors.

More Meanings

1. (figuratively, by extension) Restrained, subtle, not trying to attract attention.
2. (colloquial, meiosis) Actually; seriously.
3. (chiefly Canada, US, colloquial) Used as a downtoner; kind of.
4. (slang) In a low-key or surreptitious manner; secretively; understatedly; on the down-low.

Example Sentences

She deserves an Oscar for her low-key performance in that movie.

For a low-key, somewhat predictable meal, dinner at Basem's offers good value.

I'm low key salty about the way that nigga did you but it seems like he still cares about you.

[David Blaine's] deceptively low-key, ultracool manner leaves spectators more amazed than if he'd razzle-dazzled.

Word Forms

• lowkey
• lowk

Synonyms for low-key

Depending on context, synonyms include furtively, subdued, restrained, low-keyed.

Antonyms for low-key

Common opposites include high-key, bedizened, blatant, blingish, brash, campy.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include restrained, subdued, low, limited, discrete, covert.

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