understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt How to pronounce understate (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Amszke Vegan Leather Saddle Bag Structured and understated, this vegan leather saddle bag channels the equestrian roots of classic prep style. Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025 Some overstate the role of violence, others understate it. Big Think, 18 Oct. 2025 But with percentages so volatile this early in the season, the influence of sheer randomness should not be understated. Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025 While D’Angelo’s influence transcends genre, it cannot be understated how extensively R&B and neo-soul, in particular, were shaped by his music. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for understate

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of understate was in 1824

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

understate

verb
un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt How to pronounce understate (audio)
1
: to represent as less than is the case
understate taxable income
2
: to state mildly especially on purpose
understatement noun

More from Merriam-Webster on understate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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