Definition of "understatement" in English

noun

1. (uncountable, rhetoric) A figure of speech whereby something is made to seem smaller or less important than it actually is, either through phrasing or lack of emphasis, often for ironic effect.

   • A master of understatement

2. (countable) An instance of such phrasing or lack of emphasis; an incomplete statement.

   • Now that's an understatement.

3. An incomplete disclosure that intentionally withholds relevant information.