understated
adjective
un·der·stat·ed
ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 
: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment
understated elegance
understatedly
adverb
Synonyms of understated
Examples of understated in a Sentence
the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling
Recent Examples on the Web
The Netflix Christmas oeuvre expanded in 2019 with this charming teen ensemble rom-com, a relatively understated entry in the streamer's catalog (compared to, say, the very sparkly musical Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square).
—
Mary Sollosi, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Dec. 2025
Steve Madden Sawyer Chelsea Boots A sleek men’s style, the Steve Madden Sawyer Chelsea Boots are made with rich black leather or tan suede exterior that’s understated and easy to wear in numerous ways throughout your next vacation.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 12 Dec. 2025
Henry’s cover design for Helm is simple, understated, confident and super evocative.
—Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
The shop has removed Bentley’s usual understated badging and replaced it with its decidedly louder logo and logo fonts.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understated
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.
Mary Sollosi, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Dec. 2025
Steve Madden Sawyer Chelsea Boots A sleek men’s style, the Steve Madden Sawyer Chelsea Boots are made with rich black leather or tan suede exterior that’s understated and easy to wear in numerous ways throughout your next vacation.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 12 Dec. 2025
Henry’s cover design for Helm is simple, understated, confident and super evocative.
—Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
The shop has removed Bentley’s usual understated badging and replaced it with its decidedly louder logo and logo fonts.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understated
Cite this Entry
“Understated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understated. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
understated
adjective
un·der·stat·ed
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd
: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share