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

Deeper in the clouds, more dust blocks more radiation, temperatures drop, and water and carbon dioxide ices coat the dust grains, along with molecules of increasing complexity. — Damien Pine, Scientific American, 13 July 2026

Jay embodies the various complexities and contradictions of hip-hop, the outlaw tendencies meeting the capitalistic ambitions. — Alphonse Pierre, Pitchfork, 13 July 2026

The United States Oil Fund (USO), the ETF that best tracks oil prices, offers equity options traders a liquid, accessible alternative to the complexities of the futures market. — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 13 July 2026

The Fortune Leaders Forum will convene Fortune 500 executives and founders of leading Asian companies to help define the future of leadership in an age of convergence and complexity. — Angelica Ang, Fortune, 13 July 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