simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
simplified; simplifying

transitive verb

: to make simple or simpler: such as
a
: to reduce to basic essentials
b
: to diminish in scope or complexity : streamline
was urged to simplify management procedures
c
: to make more intelligible : clarify
simplification noun
simplifier noun

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Microwave ovens have simplified cooking. The new software should simplify the process. The forms have been simplified.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Good gaming features and simplified Google TV streaming round things out for a sweet package. Ryan Waniata, Wired News, 8 July 2025 His left-handed power swing has been simplified and tightened. Brittany Ghiroli, New York Times, 8 July 2025 This exoskeleton initiative is designed to simplify manual labor for global workforces and shape the future of the human-machine interface. Matt Emma, USA Today, 4 July 2025 The Joint Commission has also taken steps to simplify its process: removing 714 requirements from the hospital accreditation program and streamlining accreditation requirements into 14 NPGs. Alexis Kayser, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for simplify

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplify was in 1750

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Simplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplify. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

simplify

verb
sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
simplified; simplifying
: to make simple or simpler
simplification noun
simplifier noun

More from Merriam-Webster on simplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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