underrated

American  

[uhn-der-rey-tid] / ˌʌn dərˈreɪ tɪd /

adjective

1. rated or evaluated too low; underestimated or undervalued.

   It’s an accomplished album from an underrated band, and will hopefully get them the recognition they deserve.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of underrate.

Usage

What does underrated mean? If you call something underrated, it means you think the general opinion about it is lower than it should be. Underrated is an adjective, but is also the past tense of the verb underrate. It is somewhat more common to call something underrated than to say that people underrate it, but both are used. The opposite of underrated is overrated, which is perhaps more commonly used. Example: I think Brussels sprouts are an underrated food.

Etymology

Origin of underrated

underrate ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

The twin told her that her self-evaluation underrated her accomplishments, because she played down her pivotal role in drafting two successful client proposals.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

Then comes the pico de gallo, which may be one of the most underrated grocery-store shortcuts of all time: tomatoes, onion, cilantro and jalapeños already chopped and ready to collapse into something savory.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

The band experienced an artistic and critical renaissance in the mid-2000s, starting with the underrated gem “Rockford” in 2006, that has continued to present day.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Smith's running ability is clear, but he is an underrated kicker out of hand, finding his wings with well-weighted bombs, and a brave tackler.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

“I think pain is the most underrated emotion available to us,” the Count said.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman

Related Words

• underestimate
• underprice
• undervalue