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
Kupp’s no longer the top option for his team, but the role he’s played in getting the Seahawks all the way to Santa Clara for Sunday’s Super Bowl can’t be understated.
—
Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
On arguably the most polarizing domestic-policy issue of the day—the state of higher education—his approach was understated, process-oriented, and effective.
—Andy Smarick, Washington Post, 2 Feb. 2026
The rooms Even the standard guest rooms have a good amount of space (starting at 600 square), and the style feels contemporary and understated with rooms done in tan desert hues with natural stone glass showers, double sink vanities, and oval tubs, plus large balconies or patios.
—Lizbeth Scordo, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Jan. 2026
Springsteen’s solo acoustic performance of the song was understated compared to the production heard on the studio version, but back-up singers or a full band would’ve gotten in the way of the essential truth of the moment.
—Evan Minsker, Rolling Stone, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
On arguably the most polarizing domestic-policy issue of the day—the state of higher education—his approach was understated, process-oriented, and effective.
—Andy Smarick, Washington Post, 2 Feb. 2026
The rooms Even the standard guest rooms have a good amount of space (starting at 600 square), and the style feels contemporary and understated with rooms done in tan desert hues with natural stone glass showers, double sink vanities, and oval tubs, plus large balconies or patios.
—Lizbeth Scordo, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Jan. 2026
Springsteen’s solo acoustic performance of the song was understated compared to the production heard on the studio version, but back-up singers or a full band would’ve gotten in the way of the essential truth of the moment.
—Evan Minsker, Rolling Stone, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.
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
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