low-key

adjective

ˈlō-ˈkē How to pronounce low-key (audio)
variants also low-keyed
Definition of low-keynext
as in quiet
not excessively showy hoping to make a good impression, he deliberately chose a low-key tie with a subtle pattern

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of low-key Service is low-key but practical, with staff supporting both wellness programming and basic logistics like airport pickups. — Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 Gibson Elite Pasco Dinnerware Set Stoneware is the practical choice for everyday dishes—sturdy enough for weeknight use and handsome enough for low-key dinner parties. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 6 Oct. 2026 Last August, a source spoke with People about the low-key couple’s dynamic. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 5 Oct. 2026 Pappas, who has led a relatively low-key campaign characterized by small events across the state, is largely aligned with the Democratic Party’s mainstream. — Ben Binday, Washington Post, 3 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for low-key
Recent Examples of Synonyms for low-key
  1. quiet
  2. muted
  3. subdued
  4. understated
  5. restrained
  6. conservative
  7. unpretentious
Adjective
  • Firms that know exactly where the line sits hold quiet advantages their competitors cannot purchase or replicate.
    — Matt Alt, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Glass admitted that as a young producer, he was intimidated by Adams and his quiet confidence.
    — Scott Detrow, NPR, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of quiet
Adjective
  • The characters wear muted, sweeping gowns, their hair often loose.
    — Emily Zemler, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Stock futures are mixed this morning after the S&P 500 kicked off the week with a muted session.
    — Alex Harring, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of muted
Adjective
  • The subdued crowd in Chavez Ravine was often drowned out by the paltry number of Brewers fans in attendance.
    — Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The shoes served as a warm and subdued complement to the bright color of her dress, and still stood out with a sharp toe and stiletto heel.
    — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of subdued
Adjective
  • That reality makes the latest Carrera T more significant than its understated badge might suggest.
    — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Inside, the interiors are a study in understated neutrals—warm gray,brown tones, and crisp white walls allow the marble fireplace and expansive lake views to serve as the art pieces.
    — Madeline Weinfield, Architectural Digest, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of understated
Adjective
  • The sheer black fabric included embroidered botanical elements, adding a touch of whimsy to the restrained look.
    — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Either way, Rahimi balances the character’s clear vulnerability with just enough ambiguity about his plans for the school, accentuated through Majidi’s restrained and naturalistic approach.
    — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of restrained
Adjective
  • The move came after a conservative group announced daily protests outside the home of lead actor Yoo Hae-jin.
    — Ophélie Surcouf, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Zacharia sat down for an interview Thursday with the conservative Human Events outlet.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of conservative
Adjective
  • The unpretentious city is dotted with temporary staffing agencies, money-wiring businesses and Mexican restaurants.
    — Melissa Sanchez, ProPublica, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Widow’s Bay Sorry, but that murderers’ row of unpretentious acting talent isn’t going to be topped.
    — Sean T. Collins, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of unpretentious

Browse Nearby Words

low-grade
low-key
lowland
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Low-key.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/low-key. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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