simplex

1 of 2

adjective

sim·​plex ˈsim-ˌpleks How to pronounce simplex (audio)
1
2
: allowing telecommunication in only one direction
a simplex system

simplex

2 of 2

noun

plural simplexes
1
or plural simplices ˈsim-plə-ˌsēz How to pronounce simplex (audio) or simplicia sim-ˈpli-sh(ē-)ə How to pronounce simplex (audio) : a simple word
2
: a spatial configuration of n dimensions determined by n + 1 points in a space of dimension equal to or greater than n
a triangle together with its interior determined by its three vertices is a two-dimensional simplex in the plane or any space of higher dimension

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin simplic-, simplex — more at simple

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplex was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near simplex

Cite this Entry

“Simplex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplex. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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