underestimate

[uhn-der-es-tuh-meyt, uhn-der-es-tuh-mit, -meyt] / ˌʌn dərˈɛs təˌmeɪt, ˌʌn dərˈɛs tə mɪt, -ˌmeɪt /

VERB

minimize; rate too low

Synonyms

STRONGEST

belittle miscalculate underrate undervalue

STRONG

deprecate depreciate disesteem disparage miscarry slight

WEAK

make light of not do justice put down sell short think too little of

Antonyms

STRONGEST

exaggerate overestimate overrate overvalue praise value

STRONG

approve commend compliment flatter laud

WEAK

maximize

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.

As an undersized but scrappy guard, underestimate Harmon at your own risk.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Traders should not underestimate what a long weekend could bring.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

People "underestimate Dubai and its ability to survive a downturn", he added.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

Wes Pingree, a breeder who runs SoCalMiniPigs with his wife Sandra, said prospective buyers often underestimate what “mini” means.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

“I think you underestimate how predictable some things can be in a relationship.”

From "Every Day" by David Levithan

Vocabulary lists containing underestimate

NAEP Test Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

When Stars Are Scattered

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Miracle Worker

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!