simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

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

ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms of simplify

• streamline

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

To estimates that roughly 30% of customers are non-Asian, many drawn by the growing popularity of Asian cuisine and the convenience of prepared sauces, seasonings and pantry staples that simplify home cooking. — Sara Rosenthal, Denver Post, 11 Oct. 2026

McDonald’s says these tools are intended to simplify restaurant operations and free employees to spend more time serving customers. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026

The team then examined whether the material could simplify battery recycling. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

Kyle's prompt asks AI to simplify the language and explain arguments for and against a measure. — Jasmine Arenas, CBS News, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for simplify

• abscissae
• adonai
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi

Kids Definition

simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

simplified; simplifying

: to make simple or simpler

simplification

ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun