# undertone

/ˈəndɝˌtoʊn/ (US) · /ˌʌndətˈəʊn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undertone
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a quiet feeling or meaning under what someone says or does. You notice it even when people do not say it clearly.

For teachers: a subtle underlying meaning, feeling, or quality that accompanies the more obvious one. Also describes speech delivered in a low or muted voice.

## Examples

- His voice has a kind undertone that calms me.
- She says she supports the plan, but I hear an undertone of doubt in her voice.
- The report maintains a neutral style, yet an undertone of urgency runs through its warnings about water shortages.

## Usage notes

- Commonly followed by 'of' to name the implied feeling, as in 'an undertone of anger'.

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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.