complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sə-tē 

käm-

plural complexities

1

: something complex

the complexities of the murder trial

2

: the quality or state of being complex

the complexity of the contract

Synonyms of complexity

• complexness
• sophistication
• intricacy
• elaborateness

Examples of complexity in a Sentence

He was impressed by the complexity of the music.

The diagram illustrates the complexity of the cell's structure.

He doesn't grasp the complexity of the situation.

Recent Examples on the Web

But the show’s plotting and Niall’s exquisite complexity more than make up for Ruben’s relative flatness. —Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 24 Apr. 2026

The film is considered a turning point in Indian cinema, moving away from purely evil villains to ones that show more complexity and shades of grey. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2026

Just the complexity of it was massive. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 24 Apr. 2026

The systems are defined not just by their precision and range, but by their complexity, cost and scarcity, such as the Tomahawk cruise missile or Patriot missile system. —James Laporta, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

complex entry 2 + -ity, perhaps after French complexité

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for complexity

• convexity
• perplexity

Kids Definition

complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sət-ē 

käm-

plural complexities

1

: something complex

the complexities of the English language

2

: the quality or state of being complex