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

Additionally, such developments are also seeking to reframe hydrogen not as a long-term research pathway, but as a deployable capability suited to sustained operations where endurance, reduced signatures, and simplified energy supply chains are increasingly critical. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 22 Feb. 2026

Fennell’s screenplay strips out the story-within-a-story structure, sidelines major characters, and simplifies the multi-generational plot—all regular book adaptation stuff. —Anna Gaca, Pitchfork, 20 Feb. 2026

Disappointing realizations are possible, but this is also a great opportunity to simplify big dreams into doable steps. —Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 20 Feb. 2026

The company could also face less pressure to move its production away from China and simplify its supply chain. —Jennifer Elias, CNBC, 20 Feb. 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
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi
• certify

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