understated

[uhn-der-stey-tid]

adjective

1. restrained in design, presentation, etc.; low-key.

   the understated elegance of the house.

Other Word Forms

• understatedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of understated¹

First recorded in 1935–40; understate + -ed ²

Example Sentences

That’s true of Lorenz Hart, and it will hopefully prove true of Hawke and this understated but profound film for years to come.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

There’s also a stray reference to “Waiting for Godot” and, just like Beckett’s classic play, Panahi’s film is elemental, its every understated moment fraught with meaning.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In an interview with MarketWatch he described how some of their drawbacks have been left unchallenged and risks understated.

Read more on MarketWatch

David Risinger: The other speakers have understated the negative impact of Washington’s approach to the biotech industry.

Read more on Barron's

An understated private drive off a hedge-lined B road is a portal to a world beyond the dreams of most sportspeople.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• bland 
• comfortable 
• cool 
• delicate 
• dull 
• gentle 
• low 
• mellow 
• mild 
• muted 
• pastel 
• quiet 
• smooth 
• soothing 
• subdued 
• sweet