undertone
Translation
undertone, nuance, underlying feeling
Examples
She spoke in a low undertone.
She spoke in a low undertone.
There was an undertone of sadness in her voice.
There was an undertone of sadness in her voice.
Grammar Patterns
in an undertone in a low voice He muttered something in an undertone.
an undertone of ((sth.)) an underlying quality of something The conversation had an undertone of hostility.
Similar Words
Synonyms: nuance, suggestion, hint, implication
Etymology
From 'under' + 'tone'. A tone that is 'under' the main one, either in sound or meaning.
Memory Tips
Imagine a quiet sound or a hidden feeling lying 'under' the surface tone.