simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

simplified; simplifying

transitive verb

: to make simple or simpler: such as

a

: to reduce to basic essentials

b

: to diminish in scope or complexity : streamline

was urged to simplify management procedures

c

: to make more intelligible : clarify

simplification

ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms of simplify

• streamline

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Microwave ovens have simplified cooking.

The new software should simplify the process.

The forms have been simplified.

Recent Examples on the Web

Miami has simplified things with the understanding that if the players lock in on those three messages, the team typically performs better. —Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 28 Nov. 2025

That can simplify meal planning without relying only on beans for your nutritional needs. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 27 Nov. 2025

In November, the agency announced a new calendar of funding calls and a plan to simplify accountability processes — steps producers see as positive, though still insufficient. —Caio Delcolli, IndieWire, 26 Nov. 2025

So, does this dual-purpose platform actually deliver on its promise to simplify finances for business owners? —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for simplify

• abscissae
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi
• certify

Kids Definition

simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī 

simplified; simplifying

: to make simple or simpler

simplification

ˌsim-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

noun

simplifier

ˈsim-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun