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

With slightly oversized proportions, the dress married understated elegance with a playful approach. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 18 Dec. 2025

British design house Burberry has long been shorthand for understated luxury, with pieces that feel enduring rather than flashy. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 18 Dec. 2025

For everyday ease, Miu Miu, Fendi, and Prada introduced sleek, slim sneakers that feel understated yet quietly directional. —Minty Mellon, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2025

The Netflix Christmas oeuvre expanded in 2019 with this charming teen ensemble rom-com, a relatively understated entry in the streamer's catalog (compared to, say, the very sparkly musical Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square). —Mary Sollosi, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Dec. 2025

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