/loh"kee"/ , adj., v., low-keyed, low-keying .
adj. Also, low-keyed .
1. of reduced intensity; restrained; understated.
2. (of a photograph) having chiefly dark tones, usually with little tonal contrast (distinguished from high-key ).
v.t.
3. to make or attempt to make low-key: to low-key the arms buildup.
[ 1890-95 ]