(n) understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary), Syn.meiosis, Example: saying `I was not a little upset' when you mean `I was very upset' is an example of litotes
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53
‖n. [ NL., fr. Gr. lito`ths, from lito`s plain, simple. ] (Rhet.) A diminution or softening of statement for the sake of avoiding censure or increasing the effect by contrast with the moderation shown in the form of expression; a form of understatement; as, “ a citizen of no mean city, ” that is, of an illustrious city; or, “not bad”, meaning “good”. [ 1913 Webster +PJC ]
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