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 In this period, Johnson’s painting style went through a notable shift from European landscapes and portraits to abstracted and simplified Black figures. Shantay Robinson, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Mar. 2024 Understanding Cloud Mining: Cloud mining simplifies cryptocurrency mining by allowing individuals to earn digital currencies without complex hardware or technical know-how. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 11 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for simplify 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'simplify.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near simplify

Cite this Entry

“Simplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simplify. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!