Definition of the word understatement

The word "understatement" has its roots in the early 17th century. The term "understate" means "to say less than what is true" or "to under-value" something. This concept of downplaying or minimizing something was initially referred to as "under-statement" in the 17th century. The term gained popularity in the late 18th century, particularly in the context of literature and poetry. Writers and poets would use understatement as a literary device to convey a sense of subtlety, irony, or humor. For example, saying "I'm not lazy, I'm just conserving energy" is an understatement. In modern times, the term "understatement" has evolved to encompass not just literary devices but also everyday language and communication. It can refer to a statement that is deliberately vague, downplayed, or less emphatic than the actual situation.