underestimate

[ verb uhn-der-es-tuh-meyt; noun uhn-der-es-tuh-mit, -meyt ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·es·ti·mat·ed, un·der·es·ti·mat·ing.

1. to estimate at too low a value, rate, or the like.

   Synonyms: miscalculate, misjudge, underrate, undervalue

verb (used without object)

, un·der·es·ti·mat·ed, un·der·es·ti·mat·ing.

1. to make an estimate lower than that which would be correct.

noun

1. an estimate that is too low.

underestimate

/ ˌʌndərˈɛstɪˌmeɪt /

verb

1. to make too low an estimate of

   he underestimated the cost

2. to think insufficiently highly of

   to underestimate a person

noun

1. too low an estimate

Usage

Underestimate is sometimes wrongly used where overestimate is meant: the importance of his work cannot be overestimated (not cannot be underestimated )

Derived Forms

• ˌunderˌestiˈmation, noun

Other Words From

• under·esti·mation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of underestimate¹

First recorded in 1805–15; under- + estimate

Example Sentences

This evening, Yoakam played the Byrds for me to underscore his belief that Clark is a grossly underestimated songwriter.

From Los Angeles Times

Never underestimate boomers’ allegiance to nostalgia you can sing along with.

From Los Angeles Times

However, Sport England said it had not been produced by a qualified consultant and underestimated the power of some of the players’ shots.

From BBC

“We all desperately need friends and underestimate how important friends are,” says Elliot.

From Los Angeles Times

Cinderella, however, ruined the coronation by proving mentality is still more valuable than money, grit can still beat greed and the magic of pixie dust should never be underestimated.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• belittle
• miscalculate
• underrate
• undervalue