undertone
noun uk/ˈʌn.də.təʊn/ us/ˈʌn.dɚ.toʊn/
(CHARACTERISTIC)
[ C ]（文章或讲话的）含意，弦外之音；（事件或情况的）蕴含意义
a particular but not obvious characteristic that a piece of writing or speech, an event, or a situation has
I thought her speech had slightly sinister undertones. 我认为她的话里有点儿不祥的意味。
It was a comedy act with an undertone of cruelty. 这是一个有点儿残忍的喜剧节目。
[ C ]（非主要的）隐约的颜色、气味或味道
a colour, smell, flavour, etc. that is part of something but not the most obvious part
The elephant's pale grey skin carries undertones of violet. 大象的皮肤在浅灰色中带着一丝紫色。
The gin has a unique crisp flavour that is very well-balanced with light, sweet undertones. 这种杜松子酒具有独特的清新风味，与其清甜的余味平衡得非常好。
(QUIET VOICE)
in an undertone(also in undertones) 轻声地，低声地
in a very quiet voice
Freddie muttered something to me in an undertone. 弗雷迪轻声向我嘀咕了些什么。
They spoke in undertones in order not to startle the animal. 为了不惊动动物，他们轻声地说话。