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Definitions

understated

[uhn-der-stey-tid] / ˌʌn dərˈsteɪ tɪd /
ADJECTIVE
classical
Synonyms
STRONGEST
classic elegant
WEAK
harmonious pure refined restrained symmetrical well-proportioned
Antonyms
WEAK
complicated modern unclassical
ADJECTIVE
low-key
Synonyms
STRONGEST
easygoing laid-back muted quiet relaxed restrained sober subtle
WEAK
loose low-pitched muffled played down soft-sell softened toned-down
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agitated noisy
WEAK
energized high-key high-strung histrionic nervous pumped-up
ADJECTIVE
soft
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bland comfortable cool delicate dull gentle low mellow mild muted pastel quiet smooth soothing subdued sweet
STRONG
diffuse
WEAK
ashen balmy caressing cushy dim dimmed dulcet dusky hazy lenient light low-key mellifluous melodious misty murmured pale pallid pleasing restful shaded sober tinted toned-down twilight wan whispered
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agitated boisterous excited harsh loud rough strong troubled violent
WEAK
hard severe smart stern strict
ADJECTIVE
subtle
Synonyms
STRONGEST
exquisite faint indirect ingenious profound slight sophisticated
WEAK
attenuate attenuated deep discriminating ethereal fine finespun hairline hairsplitting illusive implied inconspicuous indistinct inferred insinuated mental penetrating refined suggestive tenuous thin
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignorant stupid
WEAK
forthright hard harsh honest noisy open unsubtle

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.

Costs were understated and profits overstated, effectively creating a tax penalty on business investment.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Each phase of the ascent was, in the understated language of mission control, "nominal": maximum dynamic pressure, main engine cut-off and booster separation.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

She describes her personal experiences with an insight, vulnerability and openness that is reminiscent of the raw emotions of Peet’s recent performances, which traffic in an understated, unassuming power.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

Mielewska says the star -- known for her humble and understated style -- "comes from a very soulful, connected place".

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

He has fallen the tiniest bit in love with Lydia and with the understated, unflustered way she entertains.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri

Vocabulary lists containing understated

Finally Heard

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Keeping Pace

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The Red Car to Hollywood

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