The phrase "were suffused" implies a sense of spreading, filling or saturating with a particular quality or emotion. Antonyms for "suffused" would be words that suggest a lack of saturation or intensity. For example, the word "pallid" suggests a lack of color, vitality or intensity. Similarly, "wan" and "faded" could be used to convey a sense of something lacking in vigor or energy. Other antonyms for "suffused" may include "blanched," "bleached," "drained," and "sapped," as these terms suggest a decline or weakening of intensity or vibrancy. Overall, the antonyms for "were suffused" indicate a lack of intensity, energy, or emotional impact.