understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 

: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment

understated elegance

understatedly adverb

Synonyms of understated

• muted
• quiet
• subdued
• restrained
• simple
• conservative
• low-key
• unpretentious

Examples of understated in a Sentence

the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling

Recent Examples on the Web

Charlize Theron, portraying the immortal nymph Calypso, offered perhaps the most understated interpretation of method dressing. — Alex Badia, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

The band is screen-free and has an understated, mostly black design. — David Phelan, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Enzo Fernandez had been booked for dissent in the 82nd minute, for a typically calm, understated reaction to not being given a free kick after a feather touch from Rodri. — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Matt Damon kept things more understated beside her in a navy polo, jeans, and classic white sneakers. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for understated

• abdicated
• abrogated
• acclimated
• activated
• actuated
• adumbrated
• advocated
• aggravated
• aggregated
• agitated
• allocated
• alternated

Kids Definition

understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd 

: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion