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
The Chedi Al Bait hotel, in Sharjah, a United Arab Emirate, is so understated that it is barely marked on the road that runs along Sharjah Creek.
—
Catherine Fairweather, Air Mail, 5 Apr. 2025
This babydoll cami has all the free and understated charm of a summer dress, only in tanktop style.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Apr. 2025
But much of the show’s appeal can be tracked back to a single performer: At the center of all the flattening contrivance, David Hyde Pierce is shuffling about with his mildly hapless, lovable deadpan, giving the production’s only understated performance.
—Sara Holdren, Vulture, 25 Apr. 2025
While the dress may seem like an understated look from the Parisian luxury brand at first glance, the smallest of details can sometimes make the biggest impact.
—Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 24 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understated
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Catherine Fairweather, Air Mail, 5 Apr. 2025
This babydoll cami has all the free and understated charm of a summer dress, only in tanktop style.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Apr. 2025
But much of the show’s appeal can be tracked back to a single performer: At the center of all the flattening contrivance, David Hyde Pierce is shuffling about with his mildly hapless, lovable deadpan, giving the production’s only understated performance.
—Sara Holdren, Vulture, 25 Apr. 2025
While the dress may seem like an understated look from the Parisian luxury brand at first glance, the smallest of details can sometimes make the biggest impact.
—Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 24 Apr. 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 23 May. 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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