noun
overtone
an implied but unstated meaning
In more detail
1. (noun) a quality or feeling that is suggested indirectly, even though it is not stated directly
2. (noun) a higher frequency sound that combines with the main note produced by a musical instrument or voice
Examples
- Her comment had critical overtones, suggesting she disagreed without saying so directly.
- The violin produces rich overtones that give it a warm, complex sound.
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