simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈpli-sə-tē 

-ˈpli-stē

plural simplicities

1

: the state of being simple, uncomplicated, or uncompounded

2

a

: lack of subtlety or penetration : innocence, naivete

b

: folly, silliness

3

: freedom from pretense or guile : candor

4

a

: directness of expression : clarity

b

: restraint in ornamentation : austerity

Synonyms of simplicity

• plainness
• unity
• uniformity

Examples of simplicity in a Sentence

People like the simplicity of the instructions.

the simplicity of the music

Recent Examples on the Web

Shop the elegant flat sandals trend The strength of this elegant flat sandal lies in its simplicity. — Selene Oliva, Glamour, 26 July 2026

Tips for Making Jennifer Garner’s Blueberry Mocktail The magic of this drink lies in its simplicity, but that leaves plenty of room to play. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 July 2026

The simplicity of two options is easier to cope with than, say five—even if the outcome is worse as a result. — Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

His job is to give Evenepoel radio instructions — simplicity is the key — with Vila driving and Wale providing technical information to Lodewyck when needed. — Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 22 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English simplicite, from Anglo-French simplicité, from Latin simplicitat-, simplicitas, from simplic-, simplex

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing simplicity

• for simplicity's sake
• for the sake of simplicity
• simplicity itself

Rhymes for simplicity

• basicity
• chronicity
• complicity
• cyclicity
• duplicity
• ethnicity
• facticity
• felicity
• helicity
• plasticity
• publicity
• rusticity

Kids Definition

simplicity

noun

sim·​plic·​i·​ty sim-ˈplis-ət-ē 

plural simplicities

1

: the quality or state of being simple

2

: honesty, straightforwardness

3

a

: clearness of expression

b

: the quality or state of being plain

4

: folly sense 1, silliness