understated

adjective

un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd How to pronounce understated (audio)
: avoiding obvious emphasis or embellishment
understated elegance
understatedly adverb

Examples of understated in a Sentence

the actor's understated interpretation of the lead role is surprisingly compelling
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.
Additional offerings at the store include design services for personalized charm bracelets and necklaces, in-store soldering of heirloom pieces, and wedding ring consultations with designs that reflect Catbird’s understated and distinct point of view. Brin Snelling, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025 Rather than a super stark white (which may seem unnaturally light on your waterline), the creamy shade is more understated, giving the appearance of large doe eyes. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Apr. 2025 In Andrews’s adaptation and staging, Ranevskaya (Nina Hoss, all melancholy grace and understated charisma) feels more like a part of a true ensemble. Elisabeth Vincentelli, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2025 Thirty-two years later, the scene remains an understated classic, proof that gun battles needn’t be the overly dramatic shoot-em-ups that populate so many popcorn Westerns — Tombstone included. Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for understated

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understated was circa 1909

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Cite this Entry

“Understated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understated. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

understated

adjective
un·​der·​stat·​ed ˌən-dər-ˈstāt-əd How to pronounce understated (audio)
: expressed or done in a quiet or simple fashion

More from Merriam-Webster on understated

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