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

The desire to see Russia as singularly the product of its steppe heritage ends up distorting and simplifying this history. — Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026

But once supported by digital tools and industry guidance, entrepreneurs can simplify this data and cut through the noise. — Kate Hayward, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

AliExpress is also simplifying certain eligible refund claims by using tracking, order and seller information that is already available on the site. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 17 Aug. 2026

Refinancing student loans has several potential benefits, like lowering your interest rate and simplifying repayment. — Rebecca Safier, USA Today, 17 Aug. 2026

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
• 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