underplay

verb

un·​der·​play ˌən-dər-ˈplā How to pronounce underplay (audio)
underplayed; underplaying; underplays

intransitive verb

: to play a role with subdued force

transitive verb

1
: to act or present (a role, a scene, etc.) with restraint : play down
2
: to play a card lower than (a held high card)

Examples of underplay in a Sentence

Don't underplay the importance of exercise. I thought she underplayed her character.
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.
The commission notes the abject shortcomings of anti-money-laundering measures but badly underplay the enduring capacities of wealthy trafficking organizations to defy counternarcotics efforts. Richard Feinberg, Foreign Affairs, 20 Apr. 2021 The contributors underplay the overwhelming pressures of population growth and rapid urbanization in some parts of Latin America, as well as the growing aspirations of middle classes that current growth rates will not soon satisfy. Richard Feinberg, Foreign Affairs, 11 Feb. 2020 This double character of Arte Povera—artistic innovation intertwined with political critique—is visible in the artworks, even if the curators underplay it. Wilson Tarbox, ARTnews.com, 18 Oct. 2024 Nevertheless, this should not be an excuse for underplaying risks or panic peddling. Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for underplay 

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of underplay was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near underplay

Cite this Entry

“Underplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underplay. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

underplay

verb
un·​der·​play ˌən-dər-ˈplā How to pronounce underplay (audio)
: to handle carefully
especially : to play a role without much force

More from Merriam-Webster on underplay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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