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

The unique blend adds a punch of additional tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess and simplicity of basic egg salad. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2025

Clean lines, oversized custom windows, and an airy open-concept design create a modern elegance rooted in simplicity and natural light. —Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 25 Sep. 2025

One of my top priorities for my skin and scalp care is the simplicity of hygiene and cleanliness. —Essence, 24 Sep. 2025

The treasure trove that is the Hermès archive’s simplicity is matched only by its ingenuity (the Jean Paul Gaultier years in particular). —Kerry Pieri, Vogue, 23 Sep. 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