underestimated
UK: ˌʌn.dəˈres.tɪ.meɪ.tɪd | US: ˌʌn.dɚˈes.tə.meɪ.t̬ɪd
vt. 1. To judge something as less important, capable, or significant than it actually is.
vt. 2. To assign too low a value or quantity to something.
The word combines "under" (Old English under, meaning "beneath") + "estimate" (Latin aestimare, "to value or assess") + the suffix "-ed" (indicating past tense/participle). The logic reflects a literal "assessment below the true measure," evolving into its modern figurative sense of undervaluing ability or importance.
She underestimated the difficulty of the exam and failed to prepare adequately.
Many critics underestimated the film’s potential for success.
Never underestimate the power of kindness in daily interactions.
The team’s strength was underestimated by their opponents.
Historians argue that the impact of the event was grossly underestimated.