understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd 

: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment

understated elegance

understatedly adverb

Synonyms

• muted
• quiet
• subdued
• restrained
• conservative
• simple

Examples of understated in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Manhattan Accent Chair Create a favorite reading spot with this refined and understated accent chair from Stewart’s line. —Jacqueline Tempera, People.com, 3 Aug. 2025

At the start of this delicate and understated love story, which took home the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundance earlier this year, Anand (Bhushaan Manoj) and his family tearfully gather in a hospital waiting room. —Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 30 July 2025

But the collection proved more understated than its presentation, despite its focus on India’s sartorial influence on contemporary fashion. —Alice Pfeiffer, CNN Money, 1 July 2025

There are both bold and understated options available. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 June 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