understate
verb
un·der·state
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 
understated; understating; understates
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
Crafted in gold-toned bronze, its coloring is understated and elegant, allowing the designer to work with a more experimental shape.
—
Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2025
In contrast to any expectations of bravado his work might engender, his demeanor was courteous, understated, his conversation as sharp and perceptive as his art.
—Edna Bonhomme, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025
In the Gilded Age, inflating assets and understating liabilities was standard practice across a booming system.
—Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025
Those instincts should not be understated.
—Zach Berman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
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.
Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2025
In contrast to any expectations of bravado his work might engender, his demeanor was courteous, understated, his conversation as sharp and perceptive as his art.
—Edna Bonhomme, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025
In the Gilded Age, inflating assets and understating liabilities was standard practice across a booming system.
—Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025
Those instincts should not be understated.
—Zach Berman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share