Etymology

low-key

Today it means: Dark; characterized by dark tones and muted colors. Full definition →

First used 19th c.
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The story

From low + key.

First known use, by meaning

  • from 19th c. Dark; characterized by dark tones and muted colors.
  • from 20th c. Restrained, subtle, not trying to attract attention.

Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.