understated
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
- understatedness noun
Etymology
Origin of understated
First recorded in 1935–40; understate + -ed 2
Explanation
Anything that's understated avoids extra decoration or embellishment, like your best friend's understated prom dress, which is somehow more elegant and classic than anyone else's outfit. If your decorating style includes loud colors, lots of knick knacks, big chandeliers, and extra pillows everywhere, nobody is going to describe it as understated. Use this adjective for a restrained, tasteful, and simple style, like your grandma's perfectly understated string of pearls or an actor's beautifully understated interpretation of Hamlet.
Vocabulary lists containing understated
Finally Heard
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Keeping Pace
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
The Red Car to Hollywood
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Each phase of the ascent was, in the understated language of mission control, "nominal": maximum dynamic pressure, main engine cut-off and booster separation.
From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026
She describes her personal experiences with an insight, vulnerability and openness that is reminiscent of the raw emotions of Peet’s recent performances, which traffic in an understated, unassuming power.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026
The figures are likely understated because many victims are reluctant to report to police, the group said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026
Many investors view book value as an understated proxy for intrinsic value.
From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026
Lazlo chose the more economical and understated leather.
From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
