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 ability to program opposite movements into a single material could simplify the creation of soft machines with more complex behaviors. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 12 Aug. 2026

Git Clear’s analysis found 211 million lines of code refactoring, the deliberate work of simplifying and consolidating code, fell from 25% of all changes to under 10% between 2021 and 2024, the same stretch AI coding tools went mainstream. — Muhammad Muzammil Rawjani, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

This is a limited-time deal, so get in touch with T-Mobile to simplify your ISP and save tons of cash. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026

Like an Ibsen character, Arendt was too proud to simplify her ideas for easier understanding. — David Denby, New Yorker, 10 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