understated

1 of 2

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 

: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment

understated elegance

understatedly adverb

understated

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of understate

Synonyms of understated

Adjective

• muted
• quiet
• subdued
• restrained
• simple
• conservative
• low-key
• unpretentious

Examples of understated in a Sentence

Adjective

the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The students were natural subjects for him, too—always there, curious to see their lives reflected back to them, with the understated grandeur of black-and-white film. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2026

An understated mix of blue and yellow tones brings warmth to the room without overpowering it. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 26 Sep. 2026

For me, Peter Millar fits into that space through a more refined, understated approach — classic pieces with elevated fabrics and a focus on the details. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026

Focus on meaningful collections, cohesive room transitions, and blending bold and understated elements. — Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for understated

• abdicated
• abrogated
• acclimated
• activated
• actuated
• adumbrated
• advocated
• aggravated
• aggregated
• agitated
• allocated
• alternated

Kids Definition

understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd 

: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion