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

Designed to work seamlessly with the company’s own hardware while remaining broadly compatible, the R1 glasses bring high refresh rates and simplified connectivity to the growing AR gaming space. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026

Also mentioned is an auto-hitch system to simplify hooking it up to the tow vehicle. —New Atlas, 5 Jan. 2026

This vastly simplifies the solution of Einstein's equations and is the basis for the Lambda-CDM model. —Subir Sarkar, Space.com, 5 Jan. 2026

The Seattle Seahawks win over the San Francisco 49ers in the final week of the regular season on Saturday simplified the formula to figure out the one remaining opponent for the Miami Dolphins to be determined for the 2026 schedule. —David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 5 Jan. 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