understated

adjective

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

Examples of understated in a Sentence

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.
This option is like a blank canvas; wear it solo for an understated look, or layer it under a blazer for a dressier move inspired by Graham. Clara McMahon, People.com, 2 Feb. 2025 Our dandyism is more understated than the traditional notions of how people perceive a dandy to be. Essence, 30 Jan. 2025 Hard Truths is filled with understated but hopeful and lovely visuals: Rays of light streak across Moses’s face through a set of window blinds. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 24 Jan. 2025 This year’s presence at the Sundance Film Festival is intentionally more understated than in the past. Indiewire Staff, IndieWire, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for understated 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understated was circa 1909

Dictionary Entries Near understated

Cite this Entry

“Understated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understated. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on understated

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