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
The importance of this in the open-source community cannot be understated, as some of the most important software in the world relies on tiny communities that do not have the time or resources to meet onerous cybersecurity regulations.
—
Stephanie Domas, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
The Raffia Flat With a Coordinating Skirt Set The newest version of the aforementioned Alaïa flat appears here, this time in raffia, alongside a pleated skirt set for a texture-forward yet understated look.
—Christina Holevas, Vogue, 27 June 2025
Kou adds that these prints are also incredibly versatile for mixing in with your interiors, whether understated or maximalist.
—Kelly Dawson, Architectural Digest, 24 June 2025
Much like a pixie cut, the power of a bob cannot be understated.
—Essence, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Stephanie Domas, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
The Raffia Flat With a Coordinating Skirt Set The newest version of the aforementioned Alaïa flat appears here, this time in raffia, alongside a pleated skirt set for a texture-forward yet understated look.
—Christina Holevas, Vogue, 27 June 2025
Kou adds that these prints are also incredibly versatile for mixing in with your interiors, whether understated or maximalist.
—Kelly Dawson, Architectural Digest, 24 June 2025
Much like a pixie cut, the power of a bob cannot be understated.
—Essence, 20 June 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 30 Jun. 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
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