OFF-COLOR Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

off-color

adjective

ˈȯf-ˈkə-lər

variants or off-colored

Definition of off-color

as in suggestive

hinting at or intended to call to mind matters regarded as indecent the movie was rated PG-13 for some swearing and off-color jokes

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of off-color The show became a staple thanks to its sometimes off-color but always entertaining humor and the chemistry between the two hosts. — Heather Bushman, IndyStar, 20 Apr. 2026 The show was full of uproarious, often provocative sketches, per Black's unique gift for off-color material. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Apr. 2026 As trade envoy, Andrew became known for practical jokes and off-color remarks, which British diplomats had to tolerate because of his titles. — Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026 Some of the more off-color clips have captured more than 12 million views. — Sean Gregory, Time, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-color

Recent Examples of Synonyms for off-color

Adjective

The effect dissipates somewhat whenever Cahyono resorts to less suggestive, more blatantly surreal imagery.

— Kambole Campbell, Variety, 10 Oct. 2026
Though revealing, his version of naked dressing was tantalizingly suggestive rather than explicitly bare.

— Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of suggestive

Adjective

The restaurant also makes its own salsas, including roja, verde and a spicier green variety.

— Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2026
The property collaborated with Nobu and the food is clean and delicious—unsurprisingly, lots of raw fish and produce like spicy microgreens and August-sweet tomatoes grown at Sensei’s hydroponic farm down the road.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of spicy

Adjective

Only the lengthwise, or warp, yarns are dyed, while the crosswise, or weft, yarns remain undyed, giving denim its characteristic blue face and lighter underside.

— Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Oct. 2026
Fearing a blue tsunami might flip the crucial swing state, Rogers and his allies have leaned heavily into Islamophobic attacks against the progressive Democrat.

— Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of blue

Browse Nearby Words

offbeat

off-color

offed

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“Off-color.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/off-color. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of off-color

adjective

Example Sentences

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