understated
Understated (adjective) means Simple and restrained rather than showy or exaggerated. Example: “She wore an understated black dress to the gala.”
How to use understated
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishQuietly stylish or modest, in a way that avoids drawing too much attention.
Word forms
more understated comparative, most understated superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She wore an _____ black dress to the gala.
Etymology
From under- plus stated.
Rhymes for understated
See all rhymes for understated →Frequently asked questions
What does “understated” mean?
The word “understated” means simple and restrained rather than showy or exaggerated. In plain terms, quietly stylish or modest, in a way that avoids drawing too much attention.
How do you pronounce “understated”?
“Understated” is pronounced uhn-duh-STAY-tihd (/ʌndəˈsteɪtɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “understated” in a sentence?
Here is “understated” used in a sentence: “She wore an understated black dress to the gala.”
What part of speech is “understated”?
“Understated” is an adjective.