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Synonyms

understated

American  
[uhn-der-stey-tid] / ˌʌn dərˈsteɪ tɪd /

adjective

  1. restrained in design, presentation, etc.; low-key.

    the understated elegance of the house.


Other Word Forms

  • understatedness noun

Etymology

Origin of understated

First recorded in 1935–40; understate + -ed 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Dating at work isn’t going away, but the impact can’t be understated, she says.

From The Wall Street Journal

The vibe inside—serene, understated, urbane, embracing Zen-centric design principles and mass-class materials—hasn’t and doesn’t change much, from car to car.

From The Wall Street Journal

Many investors view book value as an understated proxy for intrinsic value.

From Barron's

Ro, a natural storyteller who is both witty and engaging — and understatedly funny — eventually learned how to deal with those fears.

From Los Angeles Times

But in Emond’s experience, golfers tend to boast, while skiers are often understated.

From The Wall Street Journal