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

There are both bold and understated options available. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 June 2025

Björn Borg, with his headbands and ice-cold demeanor, and Arthur Ashe, with his academic cool and understated elegance, became icons whose style outlasted their careers. —Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025

This quieter stretch of coastline, halfway between Cannes and St. Tropez, trades glitz for understated natural beauty. —Monica Mendal, Vogue, 8 June 2025

The shade is more understated than golden apricot, perfect for folks like me who typically brighten up for summer but want to get a little more playful by adding in some gentle red tones. —Leah Prinzivalli, Allure, 9 May 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