Synonyms

understated

American

[uhn-der-stey-tid] / ˌʌn dərˈsteɪ tɪd /

adjective

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

the understated elegance of the house.

Other Word Forms

understatedness noun

Etymology

Origin of understated

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

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.

The figures are likely understated because many victims are reluctant to report to police, the group said.

From The Wall Street Journal

So pressure to meet forecasts can result in both understated outlooks, which can confuse investors, and decisions on capital allocation, innovation and hiring that can damage a company over time.

From Barron's

“How about one of these? Something not too ornate, since the dress is fairly understated.”

From Literature

The wisdom in Mr. Hertling’s book is quiet, understated, intentionally crafted as paternal counsel.

From The Wall Street Journal

The IRS or a court can impose this when a taxpayer hasn’t engaged in fraud but has been negligent or substantially understated the tax due.

From The Wall Street Journal

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023