'lowlight' originates from the combination of 'low' and 'light', where 'low' meant 'not high' and 'light' referred to 'illumination'.

'lowlight' was formed in modern English by combining 'low' and 'light' to describe something less prominent or important.

Initially, it meant 'less illuminated area', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'less important or interesting part'.