underestimate

verb

ˌən-dər-ˈe-stə-ˌmāt How to pronounce underestimate (audio)
Definition of underestimatenext
as in to minimize
to place too low a value on we had underestimated her ability to raise the start-up money for her own design firm

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of underestimate The tribes contend that the government’s scientists are underestimating the effect of trawling. — Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026 Was the power of Fielder and this stunt release underestimated? — Alex Ritman, Variety, 23 Oct. 2026 Don’t underestimate Turturro’s chances of snagging the fifth Best Actor spot. — Nate Jones, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026 In fact, according to two researchers, young people’s love of reading might be underestimated. — The Monitor's Editorial Board, Christian Science Monitor, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underestimate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for underestimate
  1. minimize
  2. underrate
  3. undervalue
Verb
  • The frack happening beneath us was about half as deep as Mount Everest is high, in a section of oil-rich rock that used to be considered out of reach; other innovations allow for simultaneous fracks, minimizing downtime.
    — Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Eco effort As a camp that focuses on conservation, minimizing environmental impact is the cornerstone of the Wilderness Desert Rhino ethos.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of minimize
Verb
  • Although my favorite is the classic cookie dough, Tuffy’s Toffee is underrated.
    — Natalie Hoy, Southern Living, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The thing people always underrate about the 2000s is how many of us were not going to the movies to feel good.
    — Darren Franich, HollywoodReporter, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of underrate
Verb
  • Meta undervalued The billionaire investor also has Meta Platforms as a core part of Pershing Square's portfolio.
    — Paulina Likos, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Rubio promised on his visit to the region that the US was offering long-term deals in a part of the world Washington has historically undervalued.
    — semafor.com, semafor.com, 19 Oct. 2026
Definition of undervalue

Browse Nearby Words

underemployed
underestimate
underestimated
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Underestimate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/underestimate. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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