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Low-key

//ˈloʊˈki// adj, adv, slang

Definitions

Adjective
  1. 1
    Dark; characterized by dark tones and muted colors.

    "The classic example of low key photography is a black cat in a coal cellar. […] The most popular use of low-key photography is in making portraits of celebrities or theatrical personalities. These people demand either dignity or drama, and this type of lightning is appropriate for both."

  2. 2
    Restrained, subtle, not trying to attract attention. broadly

    "She deserves an Oscar for her low-key performance in that movie."

Adjective
  1. 1
    restrained in style or quality wordnet
Adverb
  1. 1
    Used as a downtoner; kind of. Canada, US, colloquial

    "I'm low key salty about the way that nigga did you but it seems like he still cares about you."

  2. 2
    Actually; seriously. colloquial

    "Lowkey if you talk about any woman like this you gotta die"

  3. 3
    In a low-key or surreptitious manner; secretively; understatedly; on the down-low. slang

Etymology

Etymology 1

From low + key.

Etymology 2

From low + key.

See also for "low-key"

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