low-key

[loh-kee] / ˈloʊˈki /

ADJECTIVE

subdued

Synonyms

STRONGEST

easygoing laid-back muted quiet relaxed restrained sober subtle understated

WEAK

loose low-pitched muffled played down soft-sell softened toned-down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agitated noisy

WEAK

energized high-key high-strung histrionic nervous pumped-up

NOUN

avoidance of attention

Synonyms

STRONG

anonymity diffidence inconspicuousness invisibility low profile low visibility obscurity reserve reticence semivisibility shyness

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.

Kendra Sullivan was at her family’s cabin in the Allegheny Highlands region in late October “just planning on having a low-key country weekend.”

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

So far, his low-key earnestness has struck a chord with the British public, with nearly 71% approving of him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Despite winning 10 WTA singles titles, achieving a career singles high of No. 3 in 2022 and the No. 1 doubles ranking, Pegula’s low-key demeanor means she flies a bit under the radar.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

It was already an intentionally low-key affair: "it is not a fiscal event" her team emphasise – in other words there won't be any tax or spending changes.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

We got to the party and it was a pretty good party, but low-key.

From "Feed" by M.T. Anderson

low-key

Example Sentences

Related Words