understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 

understated; understating; understates

transitive verb

1

: to represent as less than is the case

understate taxable income

2

: to state or present with restraint especially for effect

Examples of understate in a Sentence

He understated his taxable income.

She's trying to understate the issue.

Recent Examples on the Web

Geography alone, though, understates the league’s binational character. — Rick Burton, Sportico.com, 18 Sep. 2026

Market observers interviewed noted that current futures prices continue to significantly understate the actual supply risks in physical crude markets. — CNBC, 16 Sep. 2026

If last year is any indication, get ready for intricate textures, trailing scarves, off-white suits with fine tailoring for the men, and understated jewelry pairings that let the clothes do all the talking. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

They’re understated enough for everyday wear but feel richer and more elevated than the standard black-on-black ensemble. — Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for understate

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate
• angulate

Kids Definition

understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 

1

: to represent as less than is the case

understate taxable income

2

: to state mildly especially on purpose

understatement

-mənt 

noun