understate

verb

un·​der·​state ˌən-dər-ˈstāt How to pronounce understate (audio)
understated; understating; understates
Synonyms of understatenext

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.
This wine decanter is frankly understated for Alessi (compare, for example, to this coffee maker), but its exaggerated angles evoke the midcentury retrofuturism they are known for. — Wilder Davies, Bon Appétit, 7 Mar. 2025 The collection, with its emphasis on grace, discipline, and raw expression, demanded a hair look that felt just as intentional—understated yet powerful. — Lyric Christian, Essence, 6 Mar. 2025 Snell’s performance is arguably more impressive for a couple of reasons - one, the excellence of his curve is understated for the reason previously stated, and two, Snell’s grade is based on three qualifying pitches, Greene and Crochet’s upon two. — Tony Blengino, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 Lynch’s tuxedo is understated, his bow tie nothing to remember. — Dave Schilling, Los Angeles Times, 28 Feb. 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

Rhymes for understate

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Browse Nearby Words

understate
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Cite this Entry

“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

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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
-mənt How to pronounce understate (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on understate

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for understate

Nglish: Translation of understate for Spanish Speakers

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