Low describes something close to the ground or bottom, or having less of something than usual or expected.

When you crouch down to look under a bed, you're getting low to see what's there. A low branch on a tree might be easy for you to reach, while high branches need a ladder. Basketball players often play in a low stance to move quickly and stay balanced.

The word also describes amounts, levels, or intensity. When your phone battery is low, it's running out of power. A low price means something doesn't cost much. If you speak in a low voice, you're talking quietly, almost whispering. Low temperatures mean cold weather.

In music, low notes are deep sounds, like the rumble of a bass guitar or the bottom keys on a piano. These contrast with high notes, which sound bright and sharp.

People sometimes feel low when they're sad or discouraged, like after losing an important game or having a bad day. This emotional meaning connects to the physical one: when you're feeling down, you might even slump your shoulders or hang your head low.

The opposite of low is usually high, whether you're talking about height, amount, volume, or even feelings.