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

To stand and hold a place in simplicity is one of the most difficult things for any performer to do. —Guillermo Perez, Miami Herald, 3 July 2025

With clean lines and monochromatic color schemes, minimalist bedrooms offer serenity through simplicity. —Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 2 July 2025

The Wicked star loves the sonic drama of the track, in spite of its lyrical simplicity. —Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 2 July 2025

However long or fleeting summer months can feel, the season is all about ease and simplicity, and sartorially, few staples capture that carefree spirit better than the button-up shirt. —Christina Holevas, Vogue, 30 June 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