simplify

1 of 2

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

simplification

2 of 2

noun

sim·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌsimpləfə̇ˈkāshən 

plural -s

: an act, process, or result of simplifying: such as

a

: the elimination of superfluous detail in art : abstraction, generalization

the public understands … his subtle and beautiful simplifications down to essential form as part of the great tradition of sculpture

—Aline B. Saarinen

b

: the reduction or elimination of complexity or multiplicity : streamlining

simplification of the control panel of an airplane

product-line simplification is equally applicable to wholesale and retail businesses

c(1)

: the reduction of a double consonant to a single one (as in Latin vacilo for vacillo)

(2)

: the elision of silent letters (as in gram for gramme) compare contraction sense 4

d

: simplism

Synonyms of simplify

Verb

• streamline

Examples of simplify in a Sentence

Verb

Microwave ovens have simplified cooking.

The new software should simplify the process.

The forms have been simplified.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

As momentum builds, identify where the toggle tax is still slowing operations down and simplify those workflows as well. — Bryan Goode, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2026

This could simplify operations for carriers that operate aircraft with both engine standards. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026

Its electronic guide-bar controls are intended to simplify pattern changes, while a multi-speed function gives manufacturers additional control over production. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2026

Instead, Island is betting that its broad platform and nimble startup-like feel will appeal to businesses looking to boost productivity and simplify their toolset. — Samantha Subin, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Verb

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

Noun

Medieval Latin simplificatus (past participle of simplificare) + English -ion

First Known Use

Verb

1750, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for simplify

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

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