understate
verb
un·der·state
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 
understated; understating; understates
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
While the design was certainly understated, there was a touch of whimsy in the bulbous light fixtures and swirly, contemporary art pieces.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 June 2026
For all the stunning natural beauty Seattle is situated amid, there’s always been something understated about the city.
—Mark Dejoy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026
Bethany Slomka is understated as Tony’s sister, Maria, who opposes the wedding.
—Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2026
Instead, the atmosphere was understated, with the team encouraging guests to focus on movement, recovery, sleep, and connection.
—Samantha Leal, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 June 2026
For all the stunning natural beauty Seattle is situated amid, there’s always been something understated about the city.
—Mark Dejoy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026
Bethany Slomka is understated as Tony’s sister, Maria, who opposes the wedding.
—Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2026
Instead, the atmosphere was understated, with the team encouraging guests to focus on movement, recovery, sleep, and connection.
—Samantha Leal, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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