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

The simplicity makes the robot lighter, cheaper, and easier to operate. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2025

For those seeking simplicity, options such as eco-friendly guesthouses, cozy budget inns, or camping at Cinnamon Bay offer affordable ways to stay close to nature. —Essence, 7 Nov. 2025

That same penchant for simplicity carried through to the actress’ glam. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 7 Nov. 2025

For small businesses, simplicity wins—a clear offer like ‘buy one, gift one’ or a free consult lowers the barrier for first-time buyers and gives them a reason to pick you over a big-box store. —Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 5 Nov. 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