understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 

understated; understating; understates

transitive verb

1

: to represent as less than is the case

understate taxable income

2

: to state or present with restraint especially for effect

Examples of understate in a Sentence

He understated his taxable income.

She's trying to understate the issue.

Recent Examples on the Web

While Calvin Klein normally does away with fussy embellishments and patterns, stripes remain the only exception, thanks to their resort casual look that instantly elevates an outfit while keeping it understated. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 2026

Debbie Richardson’s costume design is similarly understated. —Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 12 May 2026

Running to the club If Vuori is understated and Wilson is elegant, Nike brings pure, raw energy. —Kaio Cesar, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026

Perhaps a bit understated, compared to the team’s alpha, Atkinson. —Joe Vardon, New York Times, 11 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for understate

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate
• angulate

Kids Definition

understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 

1

: to represent as less than is the case

understate taxable income

2

: to state mildly especially on purpose

understatement

-mənt 

noun