simplify

sim·pli·fy

verb \ˈsim-plə-ˌfī\

sim·pli·fiedsim·pli·fy·ing

Definition of SIMPLIFY

transitive verb

: to make simple or simpler: 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

— sim·pli·fi·ca·tion \ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən\ noun

— sim·pli·fi·er \ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r\ noun

Examples of SIMPLIFY

1. Microwave ovens have simplified cooking.
2. The new software should simplify the process.
3. The forms have been simplified.

Origin of SIMPLIFY

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use: 1759

Related to SIMPLIFY

Synonyms: streamline

Antonyms: complex, complexify, complicate, perplex, sophisticate

Related Words: dumb down, oversimplify; prune, strip (down), trim; purify, refine

Near Antonyms: elaborate

see all synonyms and antonyms

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