understated
UK: ˌʌndəˈsteɪtɪd | US: ˌʌndərˈsteɪtɪd
adj. expressed subtly or modestly; not exaggerated or showy
vt. (past tense of "understate") to describe or represent something as less than it is
The word combines "under" (Old English under, meaning "beneath") + "state" (Latin stare, "to stand," evolving into "to declare" in English) + "-ed" (past participle marker). Originally, "understate" (early 19th century) meant to declare something weakly or incompletely, later evolving to imply restrained elegance in modern usage (e.g., "understated style").
Her understated elegance made her stand out at the gala.
The report understated the economic impact of the policy.
He wore an understated suit to the interview.
The artist’s understated brushstrokes conveyed deep emotion.
Their understated reaction surprised everyone.