complexity

noun

com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sə-tē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
Synonyms of complexitynext
1
: something complex
the complexities of the murder trial
2
: the quality or state of being complex
the complexity of the contract

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
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.
This has elevated the need for specialists who are not only knowledgeable about destinations but also adept at managing the complexities of today's travel environment. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026 For international patients traveling to Turkey for rhinoplasty, clinics often structure treatment timelines around approximately a week in the country to allow for early post-operative checks and splint removal, although schedules can vary depending on the surgeon and the complexity of the case. Miami Herald, 17 Mar. 2026 Buckley, clad in an elegant red and pink strapless gown, accepted the accolade with a rousing speech, thanking her husband and the team behind the film, and gushing over the emotional complexity of motherhood. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 16 Mar. 2026 How thrilling to see such an innately feminine film, which completely centers the enormity and complexity of a woman’s love, be honored on such a massive stage. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 16 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for complexity

Word History

Etymology

complex entry 2 + -ity, perhaps after French complexité

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complexity was in 1661

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Complexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complexity. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

complexity

noun
com·​plex·​i·​ty kəm-ˈplek-sət-ē How to pronounce complexity (audio)
käm-
plural complexities
1
: something complex
the complexities of the English language
2
: the quality or state of being complex

More from Merriam-Webster on complexity

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