The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word MUFFLED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
M
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F
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More clues leading to the result MUFFLED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Subdued" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case subdued = muffled.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MUFFLED mean?
MUFFLED verb- To wrap (a person, face etc.) in fabric or another covering, for warmth or protection; often with up.
- To wrap up or cover (a source of noise) in order to deaden the sound.
- To mute or deaden (a sound etc.).
- To speak indistinctly, or without clear articulation.
- To prevent seeing, or hearing, or speaking, by wraps bound about the head; to blindfold; to deafen.
- (of a sound) Stifled or covered up; diminished by interference.