Overtone vs. Undertone

Overtone vs. Undertone — Is There a Difference?
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Difference Between Overtone and Undertone

Overtonenoun

A tone whose frequency is an integer multiple of another; a member of the harmonic series

Undertonenoun

An auditory tone of low pitch or volume.

Overtonenoun

An implicit message (in a film, book, verbal discussion or similar) perceived as overwhelming the explicit message. See undertone.

Undertonenoun

An implicit message perceived subtly alongside, but not detracting noticeably from, the explicit message conveyed in or by a book, film, verbal dialogue or similar (contrast with overtone); an undercurrent.

Overtonenoun

(usually plural) an ulterior implicit meaning or quality;

overtones of despair

Undertonenoun

A pale colour, or one seen underneath another colour.

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Overtonenoun

a harmonic with a frequency that is a multiple of the fundamental frequency

Undertonenoun

A low state of the physical faculties.

Undertoneverb

To accompany as an undertone.

Undertoneverb

To say or speak in an undertone.

Undertoneverb

To present as less important, noticeable or prominent.

Undertonenoun

a quiet or hushed tone of voice;

spoke in undertones
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Undertonenoun

subdued emotional quality underlying an utterance; implicit meaning

Undertonenoun

a pale or subdued color