understated
adjective
un·der·stat·ed
ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 
: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment
understated elegance
understatedly
adverb
Examples of understated in a Sentence
the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling
Recent Examples on the Web
Curiosity is an underestimated and understated leadership trait.
—
Janine Schindler, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
Tremayne has become a dark horse in the wideout competition because of his reliable hands and understated route running ability, and Young took advantage of both attributes on the deep toss.
—Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 14 Aug. 2025
Straightforward passages turn into figurative reflections and allusive pathways….No poet is more mercurial while frank, more understated while exacting, or more enlightened while inquisitive.
—Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 5 Aug. 2025
Your acting was very understated compared to your stand-up style.
—Frank Digiacomo, Billboard, 24 July 2025
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Janine Schindler, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
Tremayne has become a dark horse in the wideout competition because of his reliable hands and understated route running ability, and Young took advantage of both attributes on the deep toss.
—Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 14 Aug. 2025
Straightforward passages turn into figurative reflections and allusive pathways….No poet is more mercurial while frank, more understated while exacting, or more enlightened while inquisitive.
—Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 5 Aug. 2025
Your acting was very understated compared to your stand-up style.
—Frank Digiacomo, Billboard, 24 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for understated
Cite this Entry
“Understated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understated. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
understated
adjective
un·der·stat·ed
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd
: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion
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