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 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 After bursting out of the middle of a snowman, Dusty steps down into the audience to do a little of her famous off-color crowd work. — Merrill Markoe, Rolling Stone, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-color

Recent Examples of Synonyms for off-color

Adjective

Messages in 2024 between Johnson and Duffey revealed the two men used suggestive language.

— Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026
They are not allowed to send or receive pornography, but there are no rules against suggestive photos.

— Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of suggestive

Adjective

Nightcap is a deliciously addictive gourmand, blending cozy vanilla and rich woods with sparkling ginger and cardamom for a spicy-sweet twist.

— Allure Editors, Allure, 31 Aug. 2026
The dish is spicy enough and not so thick with cream or flour and is a standout in the clam chowder world, according to Times reader Mary Ann Mollenkamp.

— Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of spicy

Adjective

The above style is an absolute staple, and the mid-blue wash goes with everything—I’m already picturing it with a gray cashmere sweater.

— Annie Blackman, InStyle, 29 Aug. 2026
Watching a giant blue bull move through the Nevada desert feels surreal, and with Ukrainian collaborators building it, the piece strongly shows cultural identity and resilience.

— Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of off-color

adjective

Example Sentences

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