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, naiveté

b

: folly, silliness

3

: freedom from pretense or guile : candor

4

a

: directness of expression : clarity

b

: restraint in ornamentation : austerity

Synonyms

• 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

Shot over two days with striking simplicity, the film reflects Alshamsi’s gift for emotional nuance and cultural reflection. —Essie Assibu, Variety, 17 Oct. 2025

This family boat ride is the kind that can be easily overlooked due to its simplicity. —Zachary Laks, Travel + Leisure, 17 Oct. 2025

Utility Redux’s earthy color stories, functional design and natural overdyes mirrors the growing appeal of slowness and simplicity. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 17 Oct. 2025

The concept blends the accuracy of modern bioprinting with the simplicity of ingestible medical devices. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025

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