understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 

: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment

understated elegance

understatedly adverb

Synonyms of understated

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

Examples of understated in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Byblos Beach is for languorous lunches; La Réserve à la Plage for understated chic; Loulou Ramatuelle for Parisians-en-vacances chic; and Jardin Tropézina for White Lotus buzz. — Lanie Goodman, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026

My Life with the Walter Boys has made an understated return to Netflix with Season 3. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 18 Aug. 2026

Katharine Hepburn found it as a way to dress with poise and freedom, while Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy wore her classic fit with an understated elegance that continues to fascinate. — Alex Sales, Glamour, 17 Aug. 2026

Then there’s the whitewall tires, which just add a dash more panache to a show car defined by understated elegance. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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