easier; easiest
1
: not hard to do : not difficult
an easy lesson
It's surprisingly easy to use.
It was an easy decision to make.
They scored an easy goal late in the game.
It wasn't easy for her to leave home.
He's an easy person (for other people) to like. = It's easy (for other people) to like him.
There are no easy solutions to this problem.
He likes to keep a dictionary within easy reach [=nearby] when he's writing.
2
a
: free from pain, trouble, or worry
He's had an easy life.
This new schedule should make our lives easier.
I hope this will make things easier for you.
I won't feel easy until I know that she arrived safely.
an easy mind
b
: not hurried
We proceeded at an easy [=leisurely] pace.
c
: not requiring much strength or energy
easy, gentle movements
3
a
: not harsh or severe in punishing or criticizing someone
I think they're being too easy on him. [=they're not criticizing/punishing him harshly enough]
b
: not hard to please
an easy [=lenient] teacher
Note: The informal phrase I'm easy is used as a way of saying that you are easy to please and will accept what someone else decides.
4
: not steep
easy slopes
5
informal
: not hard to get
easy money
easy pickings [=things that are easy to get]
6
: relaxed and informal
He has an easy [=easygoing] manner.
an easy smile
7
—used to describe someone or something that is easy to attack, trick, criticize, etc.
His lack of experience makes him an easy target for his political enemies.
insects that are easy prey for many birds
(US) He's an easy mark for anyone needing a loan.
8
informal
: lightly pleasant and enjoyable
music for easy listening
9
informal + old-fashioned
: not sexually respectable
an easy woman [=a woman who has sex with many men]
easy morals
a woman of easy virtue
easier; easiest
: without difficulty or stress
He just wants to take life easy now.
The repairs will cost $100, easy. [=the repairs will cost at least $100]
"We just need to raise the money." "That's easier said than done." [=that will not be easy to do]
Success hasn't come easy for her. [=success has not been easy to achieve]
Cite this Entry
“Easy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/easy. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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