Definitions

subdued

[suhb-dood, -dyood] / səbˈdud, -ˈdyud /

ADJECTIVE

quiet, controlled

Synonyms

STRONGEST

hushed low-key mellow muted restrained sober solemn unobtrusive

STRONG

chastened dejected dim domesticated grave moderated repressed shaded softened tempered

WEAK

crestfallen domestic down in the mouth downcast inobtrusive neutral out of spirits repentant sad serious soft submissive subtle tasteful toned-down

Antonyms

STRONG

cheerful happy

WEAK

aroused boisterous communicative excited roused talkative uncontrolled

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But mostly the subdued tone steers clear of sensationalism.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

The Chinese liquor giant’s results were below market expectations, hurt by subdued consumption and a cooling economy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“In our Roaring 2020s base case scenario, strong productivity gains will keep unit labor costs subdued in 2026,” Yardeni writes.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

A subdued economy makes the trade-offs and choices over public spending more difficult.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The Orgota seemed not an unfriendly people, but incurious; they were colorless, steady, subdued.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Vocabulary lists containing subdued

"The Monkey's Paw" by W. W. Jacobs

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 6

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Monster

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