English Reference
adjective

understated

adj.
US /ˈəndɝˌsteɪtɪd/ UK /ˌʌndəstˈeɪtɪd/ un·der·stat·ed

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal

    describes something that is attractive or high-quality but not flashy or loud.

    characterized by a deliberate lack of emphasis or decoration; restrained and unpretentious in style.

    Simple

    She wore an understated gold necklace that looked very elegant with her black dress.

    In context

    The hotel's understated luxury appealed to wealthy travelers who preferred privacy and quiet sophistication over gold-plated displays of wealth.

    flashyostentatiousexaggerated

It is definitely understated, given how many riotous bangers the club has had in the past (see the amazing tiger-striped 1992 shirt , among others).

The Guardian· 20 Aug 2026

Dear April was billed as acoustic, but it’s built around jazzy electric guitar and synth washes – understated, but truly beautiful.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated