# muted

/ˈmjutɪd/ (US) · /mjˈuːtɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/muted
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. quiet or soft sound

adjective · CEFR B2

describes a sound that is quiet or softened, often because something is blocking it.

For teachers: characterised by low volume or a muffled quality; often used when a sound is dampened by a physical barrier or a mechanical device.

- We could hear the muted sounds of the city through the thick hotel windows.
- The muted tones of the cello were barely audible over the heavy rain drumming against the conservatory roof.

### 2. soft colours

adjective · CEFR B2

describes colours that are not bright or strong.

For teachers: referring to colours that are subdued, low in saturation, or lacking in brightness.

- The bedroom was painted in muted greens and greys to create a relaxing space.
- The interior designer recommended a palette of muted earth tones to complement the natural timber used throughout the house.

### 3. hidden or weak feelings

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

describes a reaction or feeling that is not expressed strongly.

For teachers: describing an emotional response or public reaction that is restrained, subdued, or lacking in enthusiasm.

- The news of the new tax was met with a muted response from the public.
- Despite the CEO's optimistic presentation, the investors offered only a muted reaction, reflecting their underlying concerns about the quarterly figures.

## Examples

- The room was painted in muted tones of blue and grey.
- The audience spoke in muted whispers as they waited for the performance to begin.
- Despite the vibrant energy of the festival outside, the atmosphere inside the gallery remained muted, defined by soft lighting and the distant hum of the ventilation system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.