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
Every room is understated and done in grays, white marbles, and earth tones—plus splashes of blue representing Lake Michigan—and comes with one of four types of soaking tubs, all deliciously inviting.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
It cannot be understated how much impact this man had on the world, particularly those who knew him closely.
—Zack Sharf, Variety, 17 Feb. 2026
Hetzel’s contributions to the documentation and preservation of Imperial County history cannot be understated, acting as a valuable resource into understanding the truth of county infrastructure, development and industry.
—Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026
Dua Lipa and Callum Turner Dua Lipa and Callum Turner’s couple’s fashion is one that feels fresh and understated at the same time.
—Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 14 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
It cannot be understated how much impact this man had on the world, particularly those who knew him closely.
—Zack Sharf, Variety, 17 Feb. 2026
Hetzel’s contributions to the documentation and preservation of Imperial County history cannot be understated, acting as a valuable resource into understanding the truth of county infrastructure, development and industry.
—Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026
Dua Lipa and Callum Turner Dua Lipa and Callum Turner’s couple’s fashion is one that feels fresh and understated at the same time.
—Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 14 Feb. 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 22 Feb. 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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