simplify

verb

sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
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 noun
simplifier noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In December 2020, Congress passed a law to simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, a form that most students must fill out each year to get financial aid. Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 20 July 2025 The World’s Largest Naked Event In 2006, there was a shift towards simplifying the message and focusing on cycling advocacy. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025 In an age of rising housing costs, concerns about sustainability, and a desire to declutter and simplify life, small houses appeal to many. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2025 All of this, Vanke claims, is in service of simplifying and speeding up logistics for shops in metro systems, which ordinarily rely on human drivers above ground that can face delays due to limited parking and congestion. Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for simplify

Word History

Etymology

French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificare, from simplus simple

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of simplify was in 1750

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Simplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplify. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

simplify

verb
sim·​pli·​fy ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce simplify (audio)
simplified; simplifying
: to make simple or simpler
simplification noun
simplifier noun

More from Merriam-Webster on simplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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