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 Secret Agent opens in stark simplicity. —Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 10 Oct. 2025

As for the overall style, Thevenot gravitates toward simplicity, suggesting something in the center of the updo-to-hair-down spectrum. —Anneke Knot, Allure, 10 Oct. 2025

The pieces have tonal text blocks, laser-etchings, as well as streamlined collars to emphasize design simplicity and purpose. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 9 Oct. 2025

Additionally, on August 11, 1912, an advertisement from Nashville Railway Light, boasted the simplicity of the electric vehicle. —Stuart Dyos, USA Today, 9 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