understated

1 of 2

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd How to pronounce understated (audio)
Synonyms of understatednext
: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment
understated elegance
understatedly adverb

understated

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of understate

Synonyms of understated

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Adjective

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Examples of understated in a Sentence

Adjective the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The result looks understated yet eye-catching—precisely because long nails usually scream for an elaborate manicure. — Paula Oelbaum, Glamour, 23 Aug. 2026 Pair them with clean lines and more understated materials so the blocks become an architectural accent. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 23 Aug. 2026 Both kept to their characteristically understated style, mirroring each other in elevated basics. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 21 Aug. 2026 That gives the pullover a refined feel with clean, understated styling. — Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for understated

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understated was circa 1909

Rhymes for understated

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Browse Nearby Words

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understated
understatement
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Cite this Entry

“Understated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understated. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

understated

adjective
un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd How to pronounce understated (audio)
: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion
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