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
Crafted in gold-toned bronze, its coloring is understated and elegant, allowing the designer to work with a more experimental shape.
—
Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2025
In contrast to any expectations of bravado his work might engender, his demeanor was courteous, understated, his conversation as sharp and perceptive as his art.
—Edna Bonhomme, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025
In the Gilded Age, inflating assets and understating liabilities was standard practice across a booming system.
—Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025
Those instincts should not be understated.
—Zach Berman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2025
In contrast to any expectations of bravado his work might engender, his demeanor was courteous, understated, his conversation as sharp and perceptive as his art.
—Edna Bonhomme, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025
In the Gilded Age, inflating assets and understating liabilities was standard practice across a booming system.
—Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025
Those instincts should not be understated.
—Zach Berman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.
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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