figurative. The tone or tenor of a piece of writing, situation, etc.; the intensity or force of a feeling or action. Cf. low key, adj. 2.

Character, style, or spirit (of a musical or literary composition, etc.). Obsolete.

A manner of discourse, or tone of speaking, adopted in addressing others or in ordinary conversation.

Tone, style, or turn of expression; tone or character of feeling expressed; tenor, drift, or general tendency or character (of a composition or…

transferred. A particular style in discourse or writing, which expresses the person's sentiment or reveals his character; also spec. in literary…