low-key

1. 1
   adjective

   Quiet and simple, not trying to get noticed or stand out.

   Like turning the music down so no one really notices it is playing.

   They had a low-key wedding with just close family there.

   He kept his birthday celebration very low-key this year.

   Similarunderstated, subdued, restrained, quiet, modest

   Oppositeflashy, showy, flamboyant, ostentatious

   Note
2. 2
   adverbcolloquialCanadaUS

   Somewhat or a little, often used to admit a feeling quietly.

   Like quietly admitting you want a second slice of cake.

   I'm low-key nervous about the test tomorrow.

   This song is low-key really good.

   Similarkinda, somewhat, secretly, quietly

   Oppositehigh-key

   Note
3. 3
   adverbslang

   In a quiet, secret way, without letting other people notice.

   Like tiptoeing out of a room so nobody hears you leave.

   They met low-key so the press wouldn't find out.

   He paid the bill low-key, hoping no one would notice.

   Similarfurtively

   Oppositeopenly, publicly

   Note
4. 4
   adjective

   Using mostly dark colors and shadows, with little bright light.

   Like a room lit by just one small candle in the dark.

   The photographer took a low-key portrait full of deep shadows.

   They lit the scene for a low-key, moody look.

   Similardark, moody, shadowy, somber

   Oppositehigh-key

   Note

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