OFF-COLOR Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

off-color

adjective

ˈȯf-ˈkə-lər

variants or off-colored

Definition of off-color

as in suggestive

hinting at or intended to call to mind matters regarded as indecent the movie was rated PG-13 for some swearing and off-color jokes

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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 off-color The show became a staple thanks to its sometimes off-color but always entertaining humor and the chemistry between the two hosts. — Heather Bushman, IndyStar, 20 Apr. 2026 The show was full of uproarious, often provocative sketches, per Black's unique gift for off-color material. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Apr. 2026 As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles. — Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026 Some of the more off-color clips have captured more than 12 million views. — Sean Gregory, Time, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-color

Recent Examples of Synonyms for off-color

Adjective

The effect dissipates somewhat whenever Cahyono resorts to less suggestive, more blatantly surreal imagery.

— Kambole Campbell, Variety, 10 Oct. 2026
Though revealing, his version of naked dressing was tantalizingly suggestive rather than explicitly bare.

— Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of suggestive

Adjective

The resulting meatballs were moist, herby, spiced, seasoned, spicy and just a joy to eat.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026
Braeburns have pronounced sweetness balanced by tartness, and their flavor becomes richer, almost spicy, in the oven.

— Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of spicy

Adjective

But most visitors were gathered around one explosively colorful painting in swirling shades of light and dark blue, bottle green, and pale gold.

— Joan Martelli, Time, 17 Oct. 2026
Jackson had not been reported missing The man had been wearing a button-down short-sleeve shirt, light blue jeans, a silver wristwatch and blue-and-white tennis shoes.

— CBS News, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of blue

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offbeat

off-color

offed

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“Off-color.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/off-color. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of off-color

adjective

Example Sentences

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