1. a quiet or subdued tone of voice
2. an underlying quality or element that is present but not obvious
3. a subdued or muted color visible beneath a surface color

Examples

• She spoke in an undertone so no one else could hear.
• The meeting was conducted in hushed undertones.
• There was an undertone of sadness in his cheerful words.
• The speech had undertones of criticism toward the government.
• Her makeup had warm undertones that complemented her skin.
• The painting’s blue undertones created a calming effect.
• He detected an undertone of anger in her polite response.