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

Free from unnecessary frills, the tried-and-true pairing is effortless, understated, and always put together. — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 20 July 2026

As flows migrate, the data will overstate how much families stopped receiving and understate how much simply changed rails. — Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

The difference between annual inflation and the cumulative effect of inflation over multiple years can create a disconnect, economists say, understating inflation’s impact on consumers. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 15 July 2026

Today, designers and homeowners alike are leaning towards matte or satin finishes that feel more natural, understated, and, most importantly, can withstand the wear and tear that comes with everyday life. — Nomita Vaish-Taylor, The Spruce, 13 July 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